CCDE

The successful CCDE-certified individual must have a demonstrated an ability to analyze and develop solutions which address planning, design, integration, optimization, operations, security and on-going support focused at the infrastructure of large 1000+ node customer networks.

The CCDE certification recognizes those with expert-level knowledge and skills in Infrastructure Design. The CCDE program is parallel to the CCIE program in terms of the expertise required and certification exam difficulty. It emphasizes network design principles and architectural theory of the network infrastructure and recognizes designers with the knowledge to assess network business requirements and translate them into technical specifications for successful designs.

Why Cisco Created the CCDE Program?

Cisco created the CCDE program to respond to market demand in recognizing existing senior-level Network Designers and Architects while simultaneously providing senior Operations Engineers and Support Engineers with a validated professional development path into an Architectural role.

Cisco has found that organizations employing strong Network Designers and Architects consistently develop networks that are easier to maintain and troubleshoot. Properly executed, a well-designed network infrastructure aligned with a network-centric corporate business strategy leads to greater levels of efficiency and effectiveness - as well as potential competitive advantages like increased up-time, easier troubleshooting, increased performance, and simpler enhancements.

What are the exam requirements to attain CCDE?

To attain a CCDE certification a candidate will be tasked with passing two exams; a Qualification Exam, and a Practical exam. Similar to the CCIE program, there are no prerequisites to taking the Qualification exam and it is a 2 hour multiple-choice exam available at any worldwide Pearson VUE Testing center. The Qualification exam, (ADVDESIGN) 352-001, assesses fundamental knowledge of networking theories, principles, protocols and technology.

Visit the CCDE program site for more details regarding the Qualification Exam.

The second exam, the practical exam, is still currently in development.

It will be an eight-hour, practical scenario-based exam available in late 2008. Bookmark the CCDE programs page as more details are expected to follow as the development team progresses.

The qualification exam is now available at Pearson VUE testing facilities worldwide.

More questions? Access the latest information on CCDE at website of CISCO.