The CCIE Data Center certification is one of the most prestigious credentials in the networking industry. This expert-level certification validates your ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot complex data center networks. However, passing the exam is a daunting task that requires a solid study plan, hands-on practice, and deep theoretical knowledge.If you’re preparing for the CCIE Data Center exam, this guide will walk you through a structured approach to passing both the written and lab exams successfully.
Understanding the CCIE Data Center Exam
The CCIE Data Center certification consists of two exams:
- Written Qualification Exam (CCIE Data Center 350-601 DCCOR): A two-hour exam that tests your knowledge of fundamental data center concepts.
- Lab Exam: An 8-hour hands-on exam that assesses your ability to configure, troubleshoot, and optimize data center networks.
Exam Topics Overview
The CCIE Data Center exam covers the following key areas:
- Network Infrastructure (Layer 2, Layer 3, Overlay Networks, VXLAN, EVPN, OSPF, BGP, etc.)
- Data Center Storage Networking (FC, FCoE, NVMe, iSCSI, etc.)
- Data Center Security (ACI, Firewalling, Microsegmentation, AAA, etc.)
- Automation and Orchestration (Ansible, Python, REST APIs, YANG, etc.)
- Compute and Virtualization (UCS, Hypervisors, VMware, KVM, etc.)
- Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI)
- Cloud and Data Center Services
Step-by-Step Study Plan
Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Exam Blueprint
The first step is to download and thoroughly review the Cisco official exam blueprint. This document outlines all the exam topics and helps ensure that you focus your studies on relevant areas.
Step 2: Gather Study Resources
To prepare effectively, use a combination of books, courses, and hands-on labs:
- Cisco Press Books:
- "CCIE Data Center Official Cert Guide"
- "Data Center Virtualization Fundamentals"
- Online Courses:
- INE’s CCIE Data Center training program
- CBT Nuggets and Udemy courses
- Cisco Digital Learning
- Cisco Documentation & Whitepapers
- Cisco Live presentations
- Cisco official guides and design documents
- Study Groups and Forums:
- Cisco Learning Network
- CCIE-focused Discord and LinkedIn groups
Step 3: Set Up a Lab Environment
Practical experience is essential for mastering the CCIE Data Center exam. You have several options for lab practice:
- Cisco DevNet Sandbox (Free cloud-based labs)
- Cisco UCS Platform Emulator (For practicing compute and virtualization technologies)
- EVE-NG, VIRL (CML), or GNS3 (For network emulation)
- Physical Lab (If budget allows, access to real hardware can be beneficial)
Step 4: Master Core Technologies
To pass the CCIE Data Center exam, you must have in-depth knowledge of:
- Networking: VXLAN, EVPN, BGP, OSPF, FabricPath
- Storage: SAN, FC, FCoE, iSCSI, NVMe over Fabrics
- Compute: Cisco UCS, HyperFlex, VMware ESXi, OpenStack
- Security: Microsegmentation, AAA, RBAC, ACI Security
- Automation: Python scripting, Ansible, REST APIs, Terraform
Spend time configuring and troubleshooting these technologies in a lab environment.
Step 5: Learn Network Automation & Programmability
Automation is a critical part of the exam. Focus on learning:
- Python for Networking
- Ansible for Infrastructure Automation
- REST API Interactions
- Cisco ACI Automation using Python and REST APIs
- YANG Models & NETCONF
You can find free resources on Cisco DevNet and GitHub to help you practice.
Step 6: Take Practice Exams
Practice tests help you evaluate your readiness. Use:
- Boson ExSim CCIE Practice Exams
- INE and Cisco’s official practice tests
- CBT Nuggets quizzes and flashcards
Simulating real exam conditions helps you manage time and improve problem-solving skills.
Step 7: Join a Study Group
Collaborating with other CCIE candidates keeps you motivated and exposes you to different perspectives. Engage in:
- Cisco Learning Network forums
- LinkedIn CCIE study groups
- Online Discord and Telegram study groups
Sharing knowledge and solving lab challenges together will strengthen your understanding.
Step 8: Prepare for the Lab Exam
The 8-hour CCIE Data Center lab exam requires intense hands-on practice. To prepare:
- Manage Your Time Effectively: Allocate time for each section and avoid getting stuck on a single issue.
- Develop a Troubleshooting Strategy: Learn how to quickly diagnose network problems.
- Increase Configuration Speed: Practice typing fast and accurately.
- Utilize Cisco Documentation: Familiarize yourself with Cisco’s official documentation, which is allowed during the exam.
The best way to prepare is by working on mock labs from INE or Cisco’s official lab materials.
Exam Day Tips
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep before the exam.
- Read Each Question Carefully to avoid mistakes.
- Stay Calm and Focused—don't panic if you encounter a difficult question.
- Use Cisco Documentation for reference when needed.
- Manage Your Time Wisely—don’t spend too long on one task.
Final Thoughts
Earning the CCIE Data Center certification is a challenging but highly rewarding journey. With structured preparation, hands-on practice, and dedication, you can pass both the written and lab exams. Stay disciplined, leverage the best study materials, and practice consistently in a lab environment.
