PCNSE, PCCSE, and PCSAE Exams to Be Retired on July 31, 2025: What It Means and What's Next

Palo Alto Networks has announced the retirement of three key certification exams: PCNSE (Network Security Engineer), PCCSE (Prisma Cloud Security Engineer), and PCSAE (Security Automation Engineer). After July 31, 2025, these exams will no longer be available, representing a major shift in the company's certification framework.

Why the Change?

This move is part of Palo Alto Networks’ broader initiative to shift toward a role-based certification framework. The traditional certifications - including PCNSE, PCCSE, and PCSAE - were heavily focused on product knowledge and configuration, which, while valuable, are being replaced by certifications that emphasize real-world, job-ready skills aligned with specific security roles.

What Happens to Existing Certifications?

Although the exams will be retired:

PCNSE, PCCSE, and PCSAE certifications will remain valid for two years from the date of achievement. 

This means that if you pass any of these exams before July 31, 2025, you will still hold the certification and be recognized as certified until its expiration. 

This transition gives professionals time to either obtain these certifications before the deadline or begin preparing for the newer, role-based alternatives.

What's Replacing These Certifications?

There is no direct replacement for the legacy exams like PCNSE because the new certification framework is not one-to-one. Instead, Palo Alto Networks now offers role-specific certifications based on practical job functions rather than just product expertise. For those interested in continuing their journey with Palo Alto Networks, here are some of the new role-based certifications to consider:

●Network Security Generalist

●Network Security Analyst

●Next-Generation Firewall Engineer

These certifications are designed to reflect how professionals use Palo Alto Networks solutions in real-world scenarios, providing more targeted validation of skills that match industry job roles.

What About Cortex and Prisma Cloud?

For those with a focus on Cortex XSOAR or Prisma Cloud, stay tuned. Palo Alto Networks has stated that new role-based certifications focused on Cloud Security and Automation (XSOAR) are in development and updates will be released in the near future.

Impact on Partners

If you are a Palo Alto Networks NextWave Partner or involved in a program that requires certifications, be sure to review the latest partner program guidelines. These will outline any adjustments to certification requirements as the transition progresses.

The retirement of the PCNSE, PCCSE, and PCSAE marks the end of an era - but also the beginning of a more flexible, skills-focused certification ecosystem. Whether you’re an existing certification holder or a new candidate, now is the time to plan your path forward.