CCNP Data Center
Professional-level Cisco data center certification validating advanced skills in design, ACI, compute, storage networking, and automation.
- Exam fee
- $400+
- Typical salary
- $115K–$150K
The CCNP Data Center is worth it for experienced data‑center engineers and network architects who need Cisco‑validated expertise. If you lack Cisco data‑center experience, a lower‑level certification may be a better start.
What CCNP Data Center covers
Professional-level Cisco data center certification. Validates advanced skills in data center design, ACI, compute, storage networking, and automation.
Key topics covered: Data center infrastructure design, Cisco ACI & automation, Cisco UCS compute, Storage area networks, Network virtualization.
Best suited for: Data center engineers and network architects with Cisco infrastructure experience.
Common career paths: Data Center Engineer, Network Architect, Infrastructure Lead, Cloud Infrastructure Engineer.
CCNP Data Center exam details
Exam domains
- Data center infrastructure design
- Cisco ACI & automation
- Cisco UCS compute
- Storage area networks
- Network virtualization
At a glance
- Exam fee
- $400+
How to prepare for CCNP Data Center
| Stage | What to do | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Understand the certification scope Read the official description and identify the key areas: data‑center design, ACI, UCS compute, storage networking, and automation. | Week 1 |
| 2 | Deep‑dive into each domain Study each topic in depth, using Cisco documentation and labs to build hands‑on experience. | Weeks 2‑4 |
| 3 | Hands‑on labs and automation practice Configure ACI fabrics, UCS servers, and storage networks; script common tasks to reinforce automation concepts. | Weeks 5‑6 |
| 4 | Mock exams and review Take practice exams, review weak areas, and fine‑tune timing and exam strategy. | Week 7 |
Jobs and salary with CCNP Data Center
People holding this certification commonly report pay around $115K–$150K. Pay depends heavily on role, location and total experience. See the salary breakdown.
Roles this certification supports
CCNP Data Center questions answered
What is the CCNP Data Center certification?
Professional-level Cisco data center certification validating advanced skills in design, ACI, compute, storage networking, and automation. It is issued by Cisco and sits in the Networking field.
Is CCNP Data Center hard?
CCNP Data Center is rated Advanced. It usually assumes several years of hands-on work, so most candidates prepare for longer.
How much does the CCNP Data Center exam cost?
The listed exam fee is $400+. Fees vary by country and change over time, so confirm the current price with Cisco before you book.
What salary can I expect with CCNP Data Center?
Professionals with CCNP Data Center commonly report pay in the $115K–$150K range. Actual pay depends on role, location and total experience.
How should I prepare for CCNP Data Center?
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 CCNP Data Center
| Certification | Vendor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA | Beginner |
| CCNA - Cisco Certified Network Associate | Cisco | Intermediate |
| CCNP Enterprise | Cisco | Advanced |
| CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure | Cisco | Advanced |
| JNCIA-Junos (Associate) | Juniper Networks | Beginner |