Cisco · 2026 Edition
A complete preparation guide, edited by Johnson Ajibi, a network and security engineer with 12+ years' experience. Covers the exam format,all 4 blueprint domains, a week-by-week study plan, and proven tips for passing first time.
2–4 months
Prep time
Intermediate
Difficulty
Multiple choice
Format
Exam code
SAUTO
Full name
Cisco Automating and Programming Cisco Security Solutions (SAUTO, 300-735, CCNP Security)
Vendor
Cisco
Exam format
Multiple choice
Domains covered
4 blueprint domains
Recommended experience
Foundational IT knowledge recommended
Typical prep time
2–4 months
Domain percentage weights are not currently available for this exam. The checklist below is still useful for planning your study.
Passing score: Cisco passing scores vary by exam version and are not always publicly listed. Check the official Cisco exam page before booking.
Phase 1
Network Security
Tip: Start with the official Network Security objectives, then practise questions on it.
Phase 2
Advanced Threat And Endpoint Security
Tip: Cover the Advanced Threat And Endpoint Security objectives, then answer practice questions to confirm you can apply them.
Phase 3
Network Programmability Foundation
Tip: Cover the Network Programmability Foundation objectives, then answer practice questions to confirm you can apply them.
Phase 4
Cloud Web And Email Security Automation
Tip: Finish with Cloud Web And Email Security Automation, then re-test your weakest earlier domain before a mock exam.
Study the official exam blueprint — weight percentages tell you exactly where to invest prep time.
Practise scenario-based questions regularly — every modern cert exam is scenario-heavy.
Use spaced repetition to retain what you've learned (Courseiva does this automatically).
Book your exam date once you're scoring 80%+ consistently on practice tests.
Review explanations for every wrong answer, not just the question — the 'why' is what makes it stick.
Apply everything in this guide with adaptive practice questions, detailed answer explanations, and domain analytics.