CCNP Data Center

Advanced Cisco Networking

Professional-level Cisco data center certification. Validates advanced skills in data center design, ACI, compute, storage networking, and automation.

Quick Verdict

CCNP Data Center is a senior-level credential best pursued once you already have hands-on experience in this field — it validates depth employers screen for at senior and lead levels, with typical compensation in the $115K–$150K range.

Overview

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.

Who This Is For

Data center engineers and network architects with Cisco infrastructure experience.

Exam Focus Areas

  • Data center infrastructure design
  • Cisco ACI & automation
  • Cisco UCS compute
  • Storage area networks
  • Network virtualization

Study Roadmap

Full step-by-step roadmap coming soon. See the roadmap page for updates.

Career Paths This Supports

Data Center EngineerNetwork ArchitectInfrastructure LeadCloud Infrastructure Engineer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the CCNP Data Center certification?

Professional-level Cisco data center certification. Validates advanced skills in data center design, ACI, compute, storage networking, and automation. offered by Cisco, focused on Networking.

Who offers the CCNP Data Center certification?

CCNP Data Center is issued by Cisco.

Is CCNP Data Center a beginner, intermediate, or advanced certification?

CCNP Data Center is classified as Advanced-level. It generally assumes several years of hands-on professional experience.

How much does the CCNP Data Center exam cost?

The CCNP Data Center exam costs $400+. Always confirm current pricing on the official Cisco certification page, as fees change periodically.

What salary can I expect with CCNP Data Center?

Professionals holding CCNP Data Center commonly report compensation in the $115K–$150K range, though actual pay varies by employer, geography, and total experience.

What category does CCNP Data Center fall under?

CCNP Data Center is categorized under Networking on CertPlanet, alongside other related certifications you can compare directly.

Is CCNP Data Center worth pursuing in 2026?

That depends on your current experience level and goals — as an Advanced-level credential, it's a significant time investment best suited to professionals who already have hands-on experience and want formal recognition for it.

How does CCNP Data Center compare to similar certifications?

See the dedicated comparison page for CCNP Data Center to view it side-by-side against alternative certifications in Networking.

Where do I register for the CCNP Data Center exam?

Registration happens directly through Cisco's official certification portal, linked from this page.

What's the best way to prepare for CCNP Data Center?

A structured, step-by-step study roadmap for CCNP Data Center is available on this site, built around the exam's actual focus areas rather than a generic study checklist.