Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee for this certification?
Yes. There is a fee for the certification. This fee covers the multiple-choice exam and labs that are included in the package. The training materials (videos, documentation) are FREE and you can take advantage of those at any time.
How do I prepare for the exam?
The pfSense® Plus Fundamentals and Practical Application certification course covers a broad range of topics, to include the basic network knowledge required to administer a Netgate pfSense Plus security appliance, firewall functions, NAT, various services available with pfSense Plus, VPN, multi-WAN, VLANs, high-availability, and more.
In order to prepare for the multiple-choice exam and lab scenario, you should:
- Review the training videos at https://info.netgate.com/pfsenseplus-training and the accompanying supplemental documentation
- Have a solid foundation in basic networking concepts
- Experience using pfSense Plus is recommended
- Set aside 60 minutes to take the multiple-choice exam
- Schedule 2 days to take the lab portion of the certification exam
Are there any prerequisites for taking this exam?
Those wishing to take part in the certification process should have a basic understanding of networking and firewalls. A basic understanding of pfSense Plus is also recommended.
As the certification is 100% online, you will need access to a computer and a reliable Internet connection. Access to the learning portal has been tested with the Chrome browser.
The course, exam and lab are all provided in English. Other languages are not available at this time.
What score is required to pass the exam?
There are two parts to the exam: A multiple-choice quiz and a virtual lab assignment.
- A score of 75% is required to pass the multiple-choice exam.
- The labs are PASS/FAIL and are not assigned a numerical grade. If you do not pass any section of the lab, you will need to retake the test as that is considered a failing grade.
Can I use reference materials during the exam?
You are not permitted to use reference material during the exam. The exam is timed and you are limited to 60 minutes on the multiple-choice exam portion. Please note that the proctor cannot answer questions related to the exam or lab content and will only be able to address technical difficulties.
When will I get my exam results?
You will receive your score on the multiple-choice exam immediately after completion. You will receive your lab grade once the instructor evaluates your results. That is usually within 24 hours of completing the lab in its entirety.
Will I receive a certificate of completion if I pass the course?
Yes! We’re excited to announce that all students who achieve a passing grade in the course will receive a personalized certificate from Netgate that includes your name, the issue date, and expiration date. You will be able to download and print that certificate once all sections of the course have been completed and graded.
How can my employer verify that I have completed the certification course?
Your employer or customer can validate your active certification by sending an e-mail to certification@netgate.com with your name and e-mail address. We will confirm whether or not your certification is active or not. We will not provide any other information.
How long are my certifications from Netgate valid?
Your certifications from Netgate are valid for one year. You will receive a notice 30 days before your certification expires so that you may begin the process to recertify based on changes to the software and the exam.
If I fail the exam, can I retake it?
Yes. If you fail the exam (multiple choice or lab) you are eligible for a one-time retake at no cost. Subsequent retakes will be at full price. Lab availability is on a first-come/first-served basis. If you fail the certification and wish to retake, please e-mail certification@netgate.com with the details of your exam and we can facilitate the second attempt.
Can I get a list of the questions and answers to see what I got wrong?
In order to maintain the integrity of the certification process, we do not provide detailed results of the multiple-choice exam.
What is your refund policy?
There are no refunds on certifications or exams.
What happens if I am not able to make the scheduled lab day due to unforeseen circumstances?
If you are unable to meet your pre-arranged lab obligations, it is your responsibility to notify us by sending an e-mail to certification@netgate.com letting us know that you will be absent. We will work with you to reschedule the lab portion of the certification based on the dates available.
Will a proctor monitor me while I take the exam?
A proctor will be available during the lab portion of the exam. Other than addressing technical difficulties with your connection, access to the material, and general functionality issues, the proctor will not be able to answer questions related to the lab itself.