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Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1 Intermediate

Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1 equips security engineers, administrators, and network professionals with skills to combat phishing, ransomware, and business email compromise (BEC)—threats responsible for over $2.9 billion in losses in 2023. This hands-on course covers administration, spam control using Talos SenderBase, anti-virus filtering, data loss prevention, and email encryption on the Cisco ESA platform, enabling learners to deploy robust email protection and streamline policy management across enterprise environments.

This course prepares candidates for the 300-720 SESA exam, earning the Cisco Certified Specialist – Email Content Security credential and contributing to CCNP Security certification. Koenig Solutions delivers official vendor-authorized courseware with 30-day lab access, ensuring practical mastery. Graduates gain industry-recognized expertise to strengthen organizational email security postures and advance into specialized security roles.

32 Hours (4 Days)
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Course Overview

The Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1 course by Cisco equips security professionals with the skills to deploy and manage the Cisco Secure Email Gateway, protecting organizations from advanced threats like phishing, business email compromise, and ransomware. Designed for security engineers, administrators, and network architects, this training aligns directly with the 300-720 SESA exam, a critical step toward earning both the Cisco Certified Specialist – Email Content Security and the CCNP Security certification. With email-borne threats responsible for over 90% of cyberattacks according to industry reports, demand for skilled email security practitioners remains high, and enterprises across finance, healthcare, and government sectors actively deploy Cisco Email Security Appliances to safeguard communications.

Participants engage in hands-on labs using real-world tools including Cisco Secure Email and Web Manager, Sophos and McAfee anti-virus engines, LDAP for directory integration, and Sender Policy Framework (SPF), DomainKeys Identified Mail (DKIM), and DMARC for email authentication. The lab environment simulates enterprise conditions where students configure outbreak filters, implement data loss prevention policies, set up content and message filters, and integrate the Cisco ESA with an external LDAP server for recipient validation. A key project involves building a comprehensive mail policy that detects forged emails, quarantines malicious attachments using AMP for Endpoints, and encrypts sensitive outbound messages—mirroring actual deployment scenarios faced by security operations teams.

By completing the Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1 course, learners gain eligibility for the 300-720 SESA certification exam, recognized globally as a benchmark for enterprise email security expertise. Professionals with CCNP Security certification report average salaries between $110,000 and $140,000, reflecting strong market demand. Koenig Solutions enhances this path with Guaranteed-to-Run batches, official Cisco courseware, and flexible 1-on-1 training options, ensuring personalized mastery of complex configurations. Graduates are positioned to lead secure email gateway deployments, advance into senior security roles, or transition into threat operations and compliance-focused positions within modern IT environments.

What You'll Learn

Set up the initial configuration of the Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1) to ensure optimal security and performance
Implement robust anti-spam and anti-virus protection with Cisco ESA to safeguard your email environment
Configure email authentication protocols like DKIM, SPF, and DMARC on Cisco ESA to prevent email spoofing and phishing attacks
Manage email encryption and ensure secure message delivery using Cisco ESA for compliance and confidentiality
Integrate LDAP and control recipient access on Cisco ESA to streamline user management and enhance security
Troubleshoot mail flow issues and optimize system performance on Cisco ESA to maintain reliable email communication

Prerequisites

Recommended knowledge before taking this course
  • Cisco CCENT certification or higher, or equivalent networking and security expertise, is recommended for mastering Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1. This foundational knowledge helps you understand email security concepts effectively.
  • A working knowledge of TCP/IP services such as DNS, SSH, FTP, SNMP, HTTP, and HTTPS is essential. These skills enable you to configure and troubleshoot email security solutions using Cisco's SESA v3.1 platform efficiently.
  • Experience with IP routing fundamentals and configuration is crucial. It allows you to optimize email security deployment and manage network traffic effectively within Cisco's SESA environment.
  • Familiarity with Windows operating systems and administration, including Active Directory and user management, supports seamless integration of Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1 into your existing infrastructure.
  • Understanding email protocols like SMTP and email pipeline operations is vital. This knowledge ensures you can secure and manage email flow effectively with Cisco's SESA v3.1.
  • Basic cybersecurity concepts and practices, such as those covered by CompTIA Security+ or equivalent, are important. They help you implement robust email security measures with Cisco's SESA v3.1 to protect against evolving threats.
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Certification Exam

Everything you need to know about the SESA 3.2 certification exam

Exam Details
Exam Name
Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1
Format
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), Simulations, and Performance-based
Questions
Varies, typically 45-60 questions questions
Duration
Usually 90-120 minutes
Passing Score
Generally varies, Cisco does not publicly disclose specific passing scores
Validity
Typically valid for 3 years, after which recertification is required
Retake Policy
Candidates must wait 5 days before retaking the exam. There is no limit on the number of attempts, but each attempt requires a new registration and payment.
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Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1

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Course Curriculum

Structured learning with hands-on labs and real-world scenarios

1
Day 1– Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1 Administration
Cisco Email Security Appliance Architecture Deployment and Installation Scenarios Initial Cisco ESA Setup Procedures Administering Cisco ESA Infrastructure Managing CLI and GUI Interfaces Advanced Network Configuration Strategies Monitoring Email Security Performance Tracking Messages and System Logging
2
Day 2– Email Flow Control and Threat Protection
Managing Sender and Recipient Domains Configuring Public and Private Listeners Host Access Table Implementation Recipient Access Table Configuration Blocking Spam via Talos SenderBase Anti-Spam and Graymail Filtering File Reputation and Threat Analysis Bounce Verification and Validation
3
Day 3– Content Security Policies and Data Protection
Mail Policies for Message Traffic Message Splintering Configuration Implementing Robust Content Filters Managing Essential Text Resources Creating Advanced Message Filters Configuring Secure Attachment Scanning Preventing Data Loss with DLP Updating DLP Engine Classifiers
4
Day 4– Authentication, Encryption, and System Operations
Integrating Cisco ESA with LDAP Configuring Secure SMTP Authentication Implementing DKIM and SPF Protocols Verifying DMARC and Forged Detection Encrypting Messages via TLS/SMIME Managing Certificates and CA Lists System Quarantines and Delivery Methods Testing, Troubleshooting, and Clustering

What's Included in Your Training

Every enrollment comes packed with resources to maximise your learning and exam success

Career Outcomes

85%

of SESA 3.2 certified professionals report career advancement within 6 months

Salary Impact

+28%

Average salary increase reported after obtaining the SESA 3.2 certification

Typical Salary Range (Global)
Entry$90,000–$115,000
Mid$115,000–$145,000
Senior$145,000–$180,000

*Source: Glassdoor / LinkedIn 2025

Job Roles

6
  • Email Security Engineer
  • Security Administrator
  • Network Security Specialist
  • Information Security Analyst
  • SOC Analyst
  • Compliance Officer

Companies Hiring

5,000+
Cisco Accenture Deloitte IBM Wipro TCS JPMorgan Chase Booz Allen Hamilton Lockheed Martin Raytheon

and 5,000+ organizations worldwide seeking SESA 3.2 certified professionals

Real Transformations

Course Student Reviews

Real results from IT professionals who trained with Koenig — rated 4.9/5 from 18,400+ verified reviews.

18,400+
Verified Reviews
4.9 / 5
Average Rating
95%
Would Recommend
1M+
Professionals Trained
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the SESA 3.2 training course

Is the certification exam included in the course fee, and what is the cost of the exam if separate?
The Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1 course fee excludes the exam. You must purchase the 300-720 SESA exam separately for $300 USD or via Cisco Learning Credits. This exam grants the Cisco Certified Specialist - Email Content Security credential and fulfills a CCNP Security concentration requirement. Register via Pearson VUE.
What training formats are available for this course, and does Koenig offer Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling?
Koenig provides live online 1-on-1, public instructor-led, and classroom training for Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1, all featuring Guaranteed-to-Run scheduling. The 32-hour, 4-day program offers intensive, hands-on instruction in virtual or in-person formats, ensuring global time zone flexibility and dedicated lab practice for every enrolled student.
How long is lab access provided, and what type of lab environment is used during training?
Students receive lab access throughout the 4-day Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1 course. We use cloud-based sandbox environments that replicate actual Cisco Email Security Appliance deployments. These labs facilitate practical mastery of malware protection, DLP, LDAP integration, and email encryption, reinforcing skills through direct, real-world configuration exercises during live sessions.
What is Koenig's rescheduling and cancellation policy for this course?
Koenig permits free rescheduling with sufficient notice for Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1. A 50% cancellation fee applies to changes made within 10 days of the start date per our Terms of Service. Rescheduling is allowed once, while cancellations made over seven days before the start incur no fees.
How many questions are on the 300-720 SESA exam, what is the format, passing score, and time limit?
The 300-720 SESA exam for Cisco Certified Specialist - Email Content Security includes 55–65 questions. You have 90 minutes to complete multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and simulation tasks. Passing scores range from 750–850 out of 1000. The exam validates your mastery of administration, spam control, message filtering, DLP, LDAP, and encryption per Cisco standards.
How long is the Cisco Certified Specialist - Email Content Security certification valid, and what is the renewal process?
Your Cisco Certified Specialist - Email Content Security certification remains valid for three years. Renew by earning 40 Continuing Education (CE) credits, passing the current or higher-level exam, or progressing to a professional-level certification like CCNP Security. Complete these requirements before your expiration date to maintain your status as a Cisco security professional.
What post-training support does Koenig provide after completing the SESA course?
Koenig offers 30 days of post-training support for Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1 graduates. This includes access to session recordings, practice tests, and expert instructor assistance for exam readiness. You also receive a certificate of completion and continued access to official courseware, ensuring you retain the skills learned during the 4-day program.
What are the recommended prerequisites or prior experience needed before taking the SESA v3.1 course?
We recommend a CCENT or higher Cisco certification, CompTIA Security+, and foundational TCP/IP, DNS, and IP routing knowledge. Familiarity with Windows administration, SMTP, SNMP, and HTTP/HTTPS is essential. These prerequisites ensure you are prepared for the technical rigor of the Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1 curriculum.
What career opportunities and salary expectations are associated with earning the Cisco Certified Specialist - Email Content Security certification?
Earning the Cisco Certified Specialist - Email Content Security certification prepares you for roles like Security Engineer or Email Security Administrator. U.S. professionals in these roles earn between $85,000 and $115,000 annually. This reflects the high market demand for experts capable of securing enterprise email systems against sophisticated phishing and ransomware threats.
How does instructor-led training for SESA v3.1 compare to self-study in terms of exam success and skill mastery?
Instructor-led Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.1 training provides structured guidance and real-time troubleshooting that self-study lacks. Over 32 hours, you gain hands-on experience with ESA features like DLP, AMP, and DMARC. This intensive, expert-led approach significantly boosts your exam success rate and ensures you can deploy secure email solutions immediately.
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