Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Administrator
PCNSA
A Professional-level exam on the Network Security track, covering Platform Architecture, Security Policy Configuration, Network Configuration, and more, rated medium in difficulty, recommended for candidates with at least 6 months of hands-on experience, consisting of 75 questions in 90 minutes. Prepare with professionally curated practice questions and walk into exam day with confidence.
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Exam Details
- Time Limit
- 90 min
- Exam Questions
- 75
- Exam Fee
- $140
- Format
- multiple-choice
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Exp. Needed
- 6 months
- Cert Valid
- 2 yr
- Free Questions
- 20
- Languages
- English
What the PCNSA Exam Covers
5 official domains
Platform Architecture
Security Policy Configuration
Network Configuration
Threat Prevention
URL Filtering and WildFire
Who Should Take This
PCNSA target roles
Certification Path
Professional · Network Security
| Prerequisites | PCCET or PCCSA (recommended) |
|---|---|
| Current Exam | PCNSA |
| Next Step | PCNSE |
PCNSA exam guide
How hard is the PCNSA exam?
The PCNSA is rated medium in difficulty, most candidates prepare with at least 6 months of hands-on experience. Difficulty varies with your existing hands-on practice, so use the sample questions on this page to gauge where you stand before booking the real test.
How long should you study for the PCNSA?
A practical plan for this difficulty level is 8–12 weeks of focused study at one to two hours a day. Split the time across the official domains below, finish each domain with practice questions, and reserve the final two weeks for full-length timed practice and review of missed questions.
What is the PCNSA exam format?
Expect around 75 questions, 90 minutes to complete, formats include multiple-choice, the official exam fee is $140 USD. It is offered in English. Check your local testing provider for delivery options and any regional pricing differences.
Who should take the PCNSA exam?
This is a professional-level certification, the prerequisite is pccet or pccsa (recommended), typical target roles include network security administrator, security engineer. If the role you are aiming for appears on that list, the credential is a direct investment in your next job move rather than a general-purpose certificate.
What comes after the PCNSA?
Candidates who pass usually continue with PCNSE, this exam sits on the Network Security track. Map the whole path before you start studying so each certificate builds on the previous one instead of repeating the same ground.
How do you renew the PCNSA certification?
The certification remains valid for 2 years, renewal is possible via pass current exam version. Plan the renewal before the expiry date so the credential never lapses on your CV or job application.
Certification FAQ
Other ways to test for PCNSA
20 free questions available — two ways to use them.
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