The CCNP Enterprise Certification is a professional-level certification offered by Cisco Systems, one of the leading technology companies in the world. This certification is designed for network engineers looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in the enterprise networking field. To obtain the CCNP Enterprise certification, candidates must pass the Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR) 350-401 exam and one concentration exam of their choice. This guide will focus on the ENCOR 350-401 exam and provide a comprehensive overview of the exam content, structure, and preparation tips.

Exam Overview

The ENCOR 350-401 exam is a 120-minute exam that consists of 90-110 questions. The exam tests the candidate’s knowledge and skills in implementing core enterprise network technologies, including dual-stack (IPv4 and IPv6) architecture, virtualization, infrastructure, network assurance, security, and automation. The CCNP Enterprise exam is intended for network engineers with at least three to five years of experience implementing and operating enterprise network technologies.

Exam Content

The ENCOR 350-401 exam covers a wide range of topics related to enterprise network technologies. The following are the major topics covered in the exam:

    Architecture

The architecture topic covers the following areas:

• Designing and deploying a scalable and modular network architecture
• Implementing virtualization techniques such as VLANs, VXLANs, and network virtualization using technologies such as Cisco Overlay Transport Virtualization (OTV) and Virtual Private LAN Service (VPLS)
• Implementing high availability and redundancy in enterprise networks using technologies such as Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol (VRRP) and Hot Standby Router Protocol (HSRP)
• Understanding the different types of network topologies, including spine-leaf, three-tier, and two-tier designs

    Virtualization

The virtualization topic covers the following areas:

1. Understanding the different types of virtualization technologies, such as hypervisors, containers, and virtual switches
2. Implementing and configuring virtualization technologies such as VMware vSphere and Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS)
3. Implementing and configuring virtual network services such as Cisco Virtual Switching System (VSS) and Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI)

    Infrastructure

The infrastructure topic covers the following areas:

• Implementing and configuring Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching technologies such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP), and Multi-Protocol Label Switching (MPLS)
• Implementing and configuring routing protocols such as Open Shortest Path First (OSPF), Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), and Border Gateway Protocol (BGP)
• Implementing and configuring wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi 6 and Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)

    Network Assurance

The network assurance topic covers the following areas:

1. Implementing and configuring network monitoring and analysis tools such as Cisco DNA Center and Cisco ThousandEyes
2. Implementing and configuring network management protocols such as SNMP and NetFlow
3. Understanding network assurance concepts such as network analytics, network segmentation, and network intelligence

 

    Security

The security topic covers the following areas:

• Implementing and configuring network security technologies such as firewalls, VPNs, and Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDPS)
• Implementing and configuring identity and access control technologies such as Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) and Cisco TrustSec
• Understanding security concepts such as threat intelligence, security operations, and security policy

 

    Automation

The automation topic covers the following areas:

• Understanding automation and orchestration concepts such as APIs, scripting, and DevOps
• Implementing and configuring network automation technologies such as Cisco DNA Center and Ansible
• Understanding the role of software-defined networking (SDN) in network automation
• Understanding the benefits and challenges of network automation, including increased efficiency, reduced errors, and the need for new skill sets

 

Exam Preparation

Preparing for the ENCOR 350-401 exam requires a combination of studying and hands-on experience. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the exam:

    Review the Exam Topics

The first step in preparing for the exam is to review the exam topics and identify areas where you need to improve your knowledge and skills. Cisco provides a detailed exam blueprint that lists the topics covered, so review this document carefully.

    Study the Official Study Materials

Cisco offers official study materials for the ENCOR 350-401 exam, including a study guide, a practice exam, and an e-learning course. These materials provide a comprehensive overview of the exam topics and are designed to help you prepare.

    Build a Lab Environment

Hands-on experience is critical to passing the ENCOR 350-401 exam. Building a lab environment allows you to practice configuring and troubleshooting network technologies in a simulated environment. You can use tools like GNS3, VIRL, or Packet Tracer to create a virtual lab environment.

    Join a Study Group

Joining a study group can help you prepare for the exam by allowing you to discuss exam topics with other candidates and learn from their experiences. You can join a study group through online forums or social media platforms like LinkedIn.

    Take Practice Exams

Taking practice exams is an excellent way to prepare for the ENCOR 350-401 exam. Practice exams allow you to test your knowledge and identify areas to improve. Cisco offers an official practice exam for the ccnp encor 350-401 dumps and several third-party practice exams.

Conclusion

The CCNP Enterprise certification is valuable for network engineers looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in enterprise networking. The ENCOR 350-401 exam is an essential component of the certification, covering a wide range of topics related to enterprise network technologies. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can prepare for the exam and increase your chances of passing on your first attempt. Good luck!