The recommended knowledge and skills that a learner should have for the best learning outcome are as follows: •IP networking fundamentals; those topics supported by the Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices Part 1 (ICND1) course •Operations process knowledge, represented by the Business Process Framework (eTOM) and Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) training or recommendations •Troubleshooting methodology knowledge or experience as applied to IP network environments •UNIX or Linux operating system experience or general familiarity

The Supporting Cisco Service Provider IP NGN Operations (SSPO) course is a five-day ILT course that is intended to help prepare individuals to pass the Cisco CCNA Service Provider Operations certification exams. This course will also provide a foundation in service provider network operations for additional courses and certification exams at the professional level. This course is designed to introduce entry-level personnel to the service provider network operations environment, processes-orientation, management tools and methods. It gives students the opportunity to practice the primary job roles and tasks. The course is also intended to help prepare students for the Cisco CCNA Service Provider Operations certification exam.