Certification Overview

The CCNP Data Center certification requires two exams:

1. Core Exam – Covers foundational and advanced data center core technologies.
2. Concentration Exam – Allows you to specialize in a specific data center technology area.

Note: Passing the core exam also qualifies you to take the corresponding CCIE Data Center lab exam.

What CCNP Data Center Validates

With CCNP Data Center, you demonstrate your ability to:

• Implement and manage data center networking solutions
• Deploy Cisco Nexus switching environments
• Configure storage networking technologies
• Implement compute solutions and virtualization
• Use automation and programmability in data center environments

Track Details & Exam Requirements

🔹 Core Exam (Required)

• 350-601 DCCOR – Implementing and Operating Cisco Data Center Core Technologies

Core Exam Focus Areas:

• Data center networking
• Compute
• Storage network
• Automation
• Security
• Network assurance

🔹 Concentration Exam (Choose One)

You must choose one of the following data center-focused concentration exams:

• 300-610 DCID – Designing Cisco Data Center Infrastructure
• 300-615 DCIT – Troubleshooting Cisco Data Center Infrastructure
• 300-620 DCACI – Implementing Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI)
• 300-630 DCACIA – Implementing Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure – Advanced
• 300-635 DCAUTO – Automating and Programming Cisco Data Center Solutions

Concentration Focus Areas Include:

• Data center design and architecture
• Advanced troubleshooting techniques
• Cisco ACI implementation and management
• Automation and programmability
• Infrastructure optimization

Validity & Recertification

Validity Period: 3 Years

Renewal Options

You can recertify by completing any one of the following:

• Pass one professional-level core exam
• Pass any two professional-level concentration exams
• Pass one expert-level lab exam
• Earn continuing education credits

Recommended Experience

There are no formal prerequisites for CCNP Data Center. However, Cisco recommends:

• 3–5 years of experience working in data center environments
• Strong understanding of networking, virtualization, and storage concepts

Who Should Pursue CCNP Data Center?

• Data Center Engineers
• Network Engineers
• Systems Engineers
• Cloud Infrastructure Engineers
• IT Infrastructure Specialists

Career Benefits

• Validates advanced data center infrastructure skills
• Enhances expertise in automation and virtualization
• Prepares you for CCIE Data Center certification
• Increases career growth and earning potential