The Juniper Networks certification landscape has officially shifted. As of September 1, 2025, the JN0-335 Security, Specialist (JNCIS-SEC) exam has been retired. In its place, Juniper has launched the brand-new JN0-336 exam, which went live on September 2, 2025. For professionals pursuing the Juniper Networks Certified Specialist – Security (JNCIS-SEC) credential, this marks a significant update in the certification path.
The JN0-335 served for several years as the mid-level certification exam for security specialists working with Juniper technologies. It tested candidates on their ability to configure, manage, and troubleshoot Junos-based security platforms such as the SRX Series Services Gateways.
However, with the rapid evolution of networking and cybersecurity, certifications must remain current. Juniper retired the JN0-335 on September 1, 2025, bringing an end to its exam lifecycle. Candidates who earned the certification through JN0-335 will continue to hold valid credentials for three years, but new test takers must now transition to the JN0-336.
The JN0-336 exam now serves as the official certification requirement for the JNCIS-SEC credential. It reflects Juniper's updated curriculum and aligns with Junos OS Release 24.4, ensuring that certified specialists demonstrate knowledge of the most recent features and security capabilities.
Here are the key details of the new exam:
Prerequisite: JNCIA-SEC certification (active)
Format: 65 multiple-choice questions
Duration: 90 minutes
Delivery: Pearson VUE testing centers and online proctored testing
Software Version Covered: Junos OS 24.4
The structure of the exam remains similar to JN0-335, which makes the transition smoother for candidates, but the content is refreshed and modernized.
Aspect | JN0-335 (Retired) | JN0-336 (Current) |
Availability | Retired Sept 1, 2025 | Live as of Sept 2, 2025 |
Prerequisite | JNCIA-SEC | JNCIA-SEC |
Duration | 90 minutes | 90 minutes |
Questions | 65 | 65 |
Software Version Tested | Older Junos OS versions | Junos OS 24.4 |
Security technologies evolve at a rapid pace. Cloud adoption, zero-trust networking, and advanced threat prevention mechanisms require IT professionals to stay current with the latest vendor capabilities. By introducing the JN0-336, Juniper ensures that its certified specialists can demonstrate real-world, up-to-date expertise.
Employers benefit as well - knowing that candidates with JNCIS-SEC (via JN0-336) are skilled in deploying and managing modern Juniper security platforms that address today's cybersecurity landscape.
Now that the transition is complete, here's what candidates need to know:
If you passed JN0-335 before September 1, 2025:
Your JNCIS-SEC certification remains valid for three years. You do not need to retake JN0-336 until renewal is required.
If you were preparing for JN0-335 but didn’t take it in time:
You must now prepare for JN0-336. Adjust your study plan to reflect Junos OS 24.4 features and objectives.
If you are new to the certification track:
Start by earning your JNCIA-SEC prerequisite, then register for the JN0-336 exam through Pearson VUE.
Juniper will provide updated exam blueprints, study resources, and training courses to help candidates prepare for the new exam.
As of September 2, 2025, the transition is complete: JN0-335 is retired, and JN0-336 is live. Juniper's move underscores its commitment to keeping certifications aligned with the latest Junos OS features and the evolving security landscape. For candidates, the timing offers a fresh opportunity. Those who already hold the certification can proudly validate their skills, while new candidates can prepare for JN0-336 knowing their knowledge will be current and industry-relevant.