Next-generation Firewall Engineer Certification: Complete Guide 2025
PALOALTO-5
Validates the knowledge and skills required for engineers and administrators in deployment, networking and device setting configuration, integration and automation, and performing centralized management using Panorama, templates, and rulesets.
Exam Details
Resources
Everything you need to pass
Comprehensive preparation materials for your Next-Generation Firewall Engineer exam
Exam Content
Exam Domains & Topics
Master these 4 domains to pass your exam
Deployment and Configuration
Networking and Device Settings
Panorama Management
Integration and Automation
Who Should Take This Exam?
- Network engineers responsible for deploying and configuring Palo Alto Networks firewalls
- Security professionals managing PAN-OS devices in enterprise environments
- IT administrators working with Panorama centralized management
- Engineers implementing automation and integration in network security environments
Study Timeline
8-12 weeks
Recommended duration
Foundation · Weeks 1-2
Review exam objectives & core concepts
Deep Dive · Weeks 3-6
Study each domain with hands-on labs
Practice & Review · Weeks 7-8
Take practice exams & target weak areas
Career
Career Opportunities
Roles and salary potential for Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certified professionals
Related Job Titles
$95,000
Average Annual Salary
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Prerequisites
Network Security Professional (PNSE) certification or equivalent knowledge recommended Understanding of network security concepts and TCP/IP networking Familiarity with PAN-OS operating system and basic firewall operations Experience with Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls
Next-Generation Firewall Engineer FAQs
Common questions about the PALOALTO-5 certification exam
The Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification is a specialist-level credential from Palo Alto Networks that validates technical knowledge and skills in PAN-OS networking, device configuration, deployment, integration, automation, and centralized management using Panorama. It demonstrates expertise in engineering and administering Palo Alto Networks firewall solutions.
The exam is considered intermediate to advanced level, requiring hands-on experience with Palo Alto Networks firewalls and Panorama. Candidates should have practical experience deploying and configuring firewalls, working with templates and device groups, and implementing automation. The exam includes scenario-based questions that test real-world application of skills.
Professionals holding the Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification typically earn between $85,000 and $110,000 annually, with an average of approximately $95,000. Salaries vary based on experience level, geographic location, company size, and additional certifications. Senior engineers with multiple Palo Alto Networks certifications can command salaries exceeding $120,000.
The Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification is valid for 3 years from the date of passing the exam. To maintain active certification status, you must recertify before the expiration date by passing the current version of the exam or completing continuing education requirements as specified by Palo Alto Networks.
While there are no mandatory prerequisites, Palo Alto Networks strongly recommends having the Network Security Professional (PNSE) certification or equivalent knowledge, practical experience with PAN-OS firewalls, understanding of network security concepts, and completion of relevant training courses such as Firewall Essentials: Configuration and Management (EDU-210) and Panorama: Managing Firewalls at Scale (EDU-220).
About the Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Certification
The Next-Generation Firewall Engineer (PALOALTO-5) is a associate-level certification offered by Palo Alto Networks. This certification validates your expertise in cybersecurity and is recognized globally by employers seeking qualified professionals. The exam consists of 60 questions to be completed in 80 minutes, with a passing score of 70%. The exam fee is $150, and the certification is valid for 3 years.
Why Get Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Certified?
- Career Advancement: Certified professionals earn an average of $95,000 per year. Palo Alto Networks-certified professionals are among the most sought-after in the cybersecurity industry.
- Industry Recognition: Palo Alto Networks certifications are respected worldwide by employers, demonstrating verified competency in cybersecurity technologies and practices.
- Skill Validation: The Next-Generation Firewall Engineer exam rigorously tests your knowledge across 4 domains, ensuring you have the practical skills employers demand.
Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Exam Format & Details
The PALOALTO-5 exam is designed to test both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Candidates are given 80 minutes to complete the exam, which contains approximately 60 questions. A score of 70% is required to pass. As an associate-level certification, it requires a solid understanding of the core technologies and some hands-on experience. Prerequisites include: Network Security Professional (PNSE) certification or equivalent knowledge recommended Understanding of network security concepts and TCP/IP networking Familiarity with PAN-OS operating system and basic firewall operations Experience with Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls.
Exam Domains & Topics
The Next-Generation Firewall Engineer exam covers 4 key domains. Understanding the weight of each domain helps you allocate your study time effectively:
- Deployment and Configuration (30% of exam)
- Networking and Device Settings (28% of exam)
- Panorama Management (25% of exam)
- Integration and Automation (17% of exam)
Who Should Take the Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Exam?
This certification is designed for professionals in the following roles:
- Network engineers responsible for deploying and configuring Palo Alto Networks firewalls
- Security professionals managing PAN-OS devices in enterprise environments
- IT administrators working with Panorama centralized management
- Engineers implementing automation and integration in network security environments
Career Opportunities & Salary
Earning the Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification opens doors to roles such as Firewall Engineer, Network Security Engineer, Security Infrastructure Engineer, Network Security Administrator. Certified professionals earn an average salary of $95,000 per year, reflecting the high demand for cybersecurity skills in today's job market.
Recertification & Renewal
The Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification is valid for 3 years. To maintain your credential, you will need to meet Palo Alto Networks's renewal requirements before your certification expires. This may include earning continuing education credits, passing a recertification exam, or earning a higher-level certification.
Exam Registration & Cost
The PALOALTO-5 exam costs $150. You can register through Palo Alto Networks's official website or an authorized testing center. Most candidates choose between in-person testing at a Pearson VUE or PSI center and online proctored exams taken from home. Be sure to review the exam policies, including identification requirements and prohibited items, before your test date.
How to Prepare for PALOALTO-5
We recommend 8-12 weeks of dedicated study time to prepare for the Next-Generation Firewall Engineer exam. Start by reviewing the official exam objectives, then work through each domain systematically. Regular practice with exam-style questions is essential for building confidence and identifying weak areas. Combine reading with hands-on practice to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Hydranode offers comprehensive preparation materials including practice exams, study guides, and free practice tests to help you pass on your first attempt. Our AI-powered practice questions are designed to match the format and difficulty of the actual PALOALTO-5 exam, giving you realistic preparation and instant feedback on your performance.