Trials and demos
How to buy
Certifiy your know-how to implement core data center technologies including network, compute, storage, automation, and security. Be the data center networking go-to expert with the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Data Center certification.

CCNP Data Center certification

Certifiy your know-how to implement core data center technologies including network, compute, storage, automation, and security. Be the data center networking go-to expert with the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Data Center certification.

Schedule exam Why certify?
Overview Exams and training Community Resources

Drive the effectiveness of data center solutions

CCNP Data Center Certification

CCNP Data Center Certification

Test your knowledge of implementing core data center technologies including network, compute, storage, automation, and security.

Network

Define and apply network management concepts like routing and switching protocols, overlay protocols, packet flow, cloud service models, software updates, and network performance.

Compute

Understand how to implement different types of server systems, update and manage server software, and monitor server performance.

Storage network

Be able to set up and manage different networking technologies. Manage software updates and monitor network infrastructure.

Automation

Understand technologies that automate and streamline network operations, like REST APIs and Bash Shell, Ansible, Python, and Terraform.

How it works

No formal prerequisites necessary

Learners often have three to five years of experience implementing data center solutions.

Example learner profiles

Professional-level certifications expand on the foundations of associate-level certifications. They cover more advanced topics and allow  candidates to hone in on a specific focus area of their choice. Many professional-level certification candidates are looking to prove they’re the best of the best in a specialized field.
To earn the CCNP Data Center certification, you'll need to pass two exams: A core exam and one of five CCNP Data Center concentration exams.

Getting started

To earn this certification, you'll need to pass two exams:

  • A core exam
  • One of five CCNP Data Center concentration exams

A variety of resources are available to help you study - from guided learning to self-study and a community forum.

Explore exams and training

Maintain your certification

Your certification is valid for three years. You can renew with Continuing Education credits or retake exams before they expire.

Resources

Professional-level Essentials Event: Data Center

Solidify your understanding of the exam and certification structure as well as the Learning Path options available.

Register for webinar

The CCNP story

Get a high-level overview of the skills you’ll learn and how the CCNP certification will help set you apart.

Download infographic (PDF)

CCNP Data Center summary

Learn about the CCNP Data Center certification program and what it takes to earn your certification.

Download At-a-glance (PDF)

Enhance your learning journey

Stay up to date

Get the latest news about Cisco certifications, plus tools and insights to help you get where you want to go.

Sign up for newsletter

Data Center certifications community

Not sure where to begin? Head to the Data Center certifications community to get advice and connect with experts.

Explore community