The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Enterprise Infrastructure certification is a top achievement for networking professionals. It shows you can design, set up, manage, and fix complex enterprise networks. Known worldwide, this credential can lead to better jobs and higher pay.
In this blog, we’ll break down every part of the certification, focusing on the exams you need to pass. Each exam gets its detailed section with tables for formatting and syllabus, based on solid research. We’ll also explain how study resources from Dumps4download can help you pass these exams on your first try. Let’s get started with everything you need to know.
The CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure certification is for experts who work with advanced enterprise networks. Cisco launched it in February 2020 to replace the old CCIE Routing and Switching certification, updating it for today’s tech like software-defined networking (SDN), automation, and wireless systems. It proves you can handle the full network process—planning, building, running, and improving it—making it a big deal for anyone wanting to stand out in IT.
To earn this certification, you need to pass two main exams: a written qualifying exam and a hands-on lab exam. Cisco doesn’t require specific prior certifications, but they suggest starting with basics from the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise levels. Below, we’ll dive into each exam with all the details.
The path to CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure usually involves three exams in practice, though only two are strictly needed. We’ll cover each one fully, with separate tables for formatting and syllabus in their sections.
The CCNA certification gives you the basics of networking. It’s not a must for CCIE, but most people start here because it makes the harder exams easier to understand. The 200-301 Exam Tests your knowledge of core concepts every network professional should know.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Exam Code | 200-301 |
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Number of Questions | 90-110 |
| Question Types | Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, simulations |
| Cost | $300 USD (plus taxes) |
| Language | English, Japanese |
| Testing Center | Pearson VUE |
| Passing Score | Around 825/1000 (varies) |
| Topic | Description | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Network Fundamentals | Network models, cabling, IP addressing | 20% |
| Network Access | VLANs, trunking, wireless basics | 20% |
| IP Connectivity | Routing, OSPF, subnetting | 25% |
| IP Services | DHCP, NAT, QoS, NTP | 10% |
| Security Fundamentals | Access lists, VPNs, basic threats | 15% |
| Automation | Intro to APIs, JSON, programmability | 10% |
For this exam, preparation is key. Books and online courses are great, but many find the material tough to cover alone. That’s where Dumps4download helps. Our 200-301 PDF guides and practice tests give you real exam questions, making it easier to learn fast and pass confidently.
The 350-401 ENCOR exam is the written test you must pass to move toward CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure. It’s also the core exam for the CCNP Enterprise certification, so it serves two purposes. This step tests deeper knowledge of enterprise networks.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Exam Code | 350-401 ENCOR |
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Number of Questions | 90-110 |
| Question Types | Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, testlets |
| Cost | USD 400 (plus taxes) |
| Language | English |
| Testing Center | Pearson VUE |
| Passing Score | Around 825/1000 (varies) |
| Topic | Description | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Network design, high availability | 15% |
| Virtualization | VRF, VXLAN, device virtualization | 10% |
| Infrastructure | Routing (EIGRP, BGP), switching, multicast | 30% |
| Network Assurance | Monitoring (SNMP, NetFlow), diagnostics | 10% |
| Security | ACLs, secure access, wireless security | 20% |
| Automation | Python, REST APIs, YANG models | 15% |
This exam is broad and tough. It covers a lot, and areas like automation can be tricky without practice. Study resources from Dumps4download are a big help here. Our 350-401 Braindumps match the real exam questions, so you can focus on what needs work and pass on your first shot.
The CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure Lab Exam is the final test. It’s an 8-hour hands-on challenge that puts your skills to work in a real-world setting. This is what makes you a certified expert.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Exam Code | CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure v1.0 |
| Duration | 8 hours (3 + 5) |
| Modules | Design (3 hours), Deploy/Operate (5 hours) |
| Task Types | Design scenarios, hands-on configuration |
| Cost | $1,600 USD (plus travel if needed) |
| Language | English |
| Testing Center | Cisco lab locations |
| Passing Score | Set per version (not public) |
| Topic | Description | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Network Infrastructure | Routing (OSPF, BGP), switching, QoS | 30% |
| Software-Defined Infrastructure | SD-WAN, SD-Access, controllers | 25% |
| Transport Technologies | MPLS, DMVPN, WAN solutions | 15% |
| Infrastructure Security | AAA, IPSec, firewall policies | 15% |
| Automation/Programmability | Python, Ansible, NETCONF/YANG | 15% |
The lab is intense. You need to know your stuff and work fast. Months of practice on Cisco gear or virtual labs are essential. If you hit roadblocks, Dumps4download offers lab simulations and practice scenarios. These tools break down hard tasks, helping you get ready for the big day.
This certification comes with big benefits:
It’s not easy, though. The lab has a low pass rate, and preparation can take 6-18 months. Using the right study tools makes a huge difference.
| Aspect | CCNA (200-301) | CCNP Core (350-401 ENCOR) | CCIE Lab (Enterprise Infrastructure) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level of Expertise | Entry-level | Intermediate | Expert |
| Purpose in Journey | Optional foundation for basics | Mandatory step to qualify for lab | Final proof of hands-on mastery |
| Skill Focus | Understanding core concepts | Applying knowledge to enterprise systems | Solving real-world network problems |
| Prerequisite Needed | None | None (CCNA recommended) | Pass 350-401 ENCOR |
| Time Commitment | 1-3 months of study | 3-6 months of focused preparation | 6-18 months of intensive practice |
| Difficulty Rating | Moderate—good for beginners | High—broad and technical | Very High—tests speed and precision |
| Exam Environment | Computer-based at testing centers | Computer-based at testing centers | Physical lab at Cisco facilities |
| Scoring System | Points-based (out of 1000) | Points-based (out of 1000) | Pass/fail based on task completion |
| Retake Policy | Immediate after 5-day wait | Immediate after 5-day wait | Limited attempts, longer wait (30 days) |
| Career Impact | Entry-level roles (e.g., network admin) | Mid-level roles (e.g., network engineer) | Senior roles (e.g., network architect) |
| Cost vs. Value | Low cost, broad appeal | Moderate cost, strong career step | High cost, elite recognition |
| Equipment Needed | Basic simulators (e.g., Packet Tracer) | Simulators and some real gear | Advanced Cisco devices or virtual labs |
| Time Pressure | Manageable—2 minutes per question | Moderate—tight for broad scope | Intense—8 hours of continuous work |
| Certification Earned | CCNA credential | Partial CCNP (with concentration exam) | Full CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure |
Success comes from a solid plan. Here’s how to tackle each exam:
1. CCNA (200-301):
2. 350-401 ENCOR:
3. CCIE Lab:
Passing these exams first time isn’t simple, but Dumps4download makes it easier. They offer:
These aren’t just shortcuts—they help you understand tough topics like security or scripting, setting you up to succeed.
• For CCNA and ENCOR:
• For CCIE Lab:
The CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure certification is a game-changer for networking pros. It starts with the optional CCNA (200-301), moves to the required 350-401 ENCOR, and ends with the tough CCIE Lab Exam. With hard work and smart resources like those from Dumps4download, you can pass these exams and take your career to new heights. Start today, and build the skills to become a true expert.
