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CCDE Exams and Training

CCDE

Exams and training

Overview Exams and training Community Resources

Coming February 2025: New AI Infrastructure elective.

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What you need to know

Exam basics

  • Exams are delivered in a secure environment by proctors, either online or at testing centers.
  • Grading is pass/fail, and your results are available online, usually within 48 hours.
  • Exams are available worldwide in English, and some are available in additional languages.

Training basics

  • Multiple training options are available, so you can study whenever and however you want.
  • Choose from Cisco U., self-paced e-learning courses, labs, and simulators, practice tests, and more.
  • If you're already certified, Cisco training earns you Cisco Continuing Education credits toward recertification.

Pass two required exams

CCDE Written Exam v3.0

This exam validate that you have expert-level knowledge in the topics and skills integral to designing even the most complex network solutions. Be ready to gather and clarify network functional requirements, design networks to meet these requirements, develop implementation plans, and convey design decisions and their rationale.

Exam cost: US$450, or redeem Cisco Learning Credits
Exam duration: 120 minutes

View CCDE written exam details

CCDE Practical Exam v3.0

This is an 8-hour modular, scenario-based exam that gives you the flexibility to focus on your area of expertise, in addition to validating core enterprise architecture technologies.

Exam cost: US$1,600, or redeem Cisco Learning Credits
Exam duration: 8 hours

View CCDE practical exam details

CCDE exam updates

Starting in February 2025, Cisco will offer a new elective for its CCDE certification. When you take your CCDE exam, you'll be able to select AI infrastructure as your area of expertise. Geared toward experienced Network Design Engineers (5-7 years), this elective proves you excel at designing data center networks that can handle demanding AI workloads. The new CCDE Written Exam (400-007) v3.1 and CCDE Practical exam v3.1 will be available early for Cisco Live Amsterdam attendees on February 9, 2025, and will be generally available on February 10, 2025.

Learn more

Preparing for your exam

​​Since everyone learns differently, we offer a variety of resources to help you study for your exam. Explore the options to find what works best for you.​

Cisco U.

Learn your way with a curriculum tailored to your interests, skills, and certification goals.

Learn more about Cisco U.

Instructor-led training

​​Join lively classroom-style learning and discussions, online or in person, that are led by Cisco and our Learning Partners.​ 

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Additional training

Access a rich library of technology and certification training, study bundles, practice exams, simulators, and more.

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Not sure where to start?

In the CCDE certification community, you can ask questions, share ideas, and connect with other members as you prepare for your certification exams.
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Upskill your entire team in an interactive, real-world environment. Led by expert instructors, group training encourages collaboration and takes your team’s productivity to the next level.

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We're here to help

If you have questions about getting certified, we’ve got answers. Learn how to register for an exam, check your certification status, and open a case about your certification.

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