CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure
The CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure is Cisco's elite dual‑exam credential for senior network engineers tackling advanced routing, automation, and security.
- Exam fee
- $1,600+
- Typical salary
- $140K–$185K
The CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure is worth it for elite engineers with 5‑7+ years of deep enterprise networking experience who need the pinnacle Cisco credential. If you’re earlier in your career or seeking a less intensive path, consider associate‑ or professional‑level Cisco tracks instead.
What CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure covers
The most prestigious Cisco certification in the world. Expert-level dual-exam credential requiring a written qualifying exam and a grueling 8-hour hands-on lab exam. Held by fewer than 70,000 people globally.
Key topics covered: Advanced routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP), SD-WAN & SD-Access, Network automation & programmability, Infrastructure security, QoS & multicast, Network design & optimization.
Best suited for: Elite network engineers with 5-7+ years of deep enterprise networking experience seeking the pinnacle Cisco credential.
Common career paths: Principal Network Engineer, Distinguished Network Consultant, Network Architect, CTO, VP of Infrastructure.
CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure exam details
Exam domains
- Advanced routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP)
- SD-WAN & SD-Access
- Network automation & programmability
- Infrastructure security
- QoS & multicast
- Network design & optimization
At a glance
- Exam fee
- $1,600+
How to prepare for CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure
| Stage | What to do | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Understand the official exam blueprint Review any available Cisco documentation to grasp the structure of the written qualifying exam and the lab components. | Week 1‑2 |
| 2 | Deep dive into core technologies Study advanced routing protocols, SD‑WAN/SD‑Access, automation, security, QoS, and design concepts as outlined in the certification description. | Week 3‑5 |
| 3 | Hands‑on lab practice Set up lab environments that mimic the 8‑hour lab exam, focusing on configuration, troubleshooting, and optimization tasks. | Week 6‑9 |
| 4 | Integrate automation and programmability Apply network automation tools and programmable APIs to streamline tasks, reflecting the automation focus of the exam. | Week 10‑11 |
| 5 | Full‑length lab simulations Run timed, end‑to‑end lab simulations to build stamina and refine troubleshooting under exam conditions. | Week 12‑13 |
| 6 | Final review and exam readiness Conduct a comprehensive review, address weak spots, and ensure all lab equipment and documentation are ready for the exam day. | Week 14 |
Jobs and salary with CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure
People holding this certification commonly report pay around $140K–$185K. Pay depends heavily on role, location and total experience. See the salary breakdown.
Roles this certification supports
CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure questions answered
What is the CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure certification?
The CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure is Cisco's elite dual‑exam credential for senior network engineers tackling advanced routing, automation, and security. It is issued by Cisco and sits in the Networking field.
Is CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure hard?
CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure is rated Advanced. It usually assumes several years of hands-on work, so most candidates prepare for longer.
How much does the CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure exam cost?
The listed exam fee is $1,600+. Fees vary by country and change over time, so confirm the current price with Cisco before you book.
What salary can I expect with CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure?
Professionals with CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure commonly report pay in the $140K–$185K range. Actual pay depends on role, location and total experience.
How should I prepare for CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure?
Start with the official exam outline, build hands-on practice for each domain, then finish with timed practice questions. The study plan on this page breaks this into steps.
Alternatives to CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure
| Certification | Vendor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA | Beginner |
| CCNA - Cisco Certified Network Associate | Cisco | Intermediate |
| CCNP Enterprise | Cisco | Advanced |
| CCNP Data Center | Cisco | Advanced |
| JNCIA-Junos (Associate) | Juniper Networks | Beginner |