About CCDE certification

The CCDE certification prepares you for network architect and designer positions. These situations often involve integrating many different network elements into a stable, manageable, and scalable architecture that supports the ever-increasing needs of companies and customers.
As one of the industry’s most respected certifications, the CCDE certification sets you apart as a leader in the design of complex network solutions.

Cisco’s Expert level certifications are among the most complex and challenging certifications in the IT world. Organizations and large companies are looking for specialists who can solve the organization’s needs with their intelligent designs. Earning a CCDE will put you one step ahead of everyone competing for a specific position.
To obtain this certificate, you must pass two tests. The first exam covers the core technologies and abilities needed by network designers.
The second is an 8-hour practical exam covering the design and architecture of enterprise network solutions by analyzing business and technical requirements. We will give a complete description of these two tests below.

As you probably know, taking Cisco exams is not free. How much you will pay for this test depends on your effort because your costs will increase if you fail the test.
However, a specific amount cannot be determined. In addition to the test cost, you should also consider the travel costs and calculate the cost of courses, books, etc.
A CCDE certification will enhance your skills in designing and architecting complex network solutions. To obtain a CCDE certificate, you must go through two steps:

First step: passing the written test

First, you must take and pass the CCDE written exam (400-007), which focuses on your understanding and skills in network design, technologies, and translating business and technical requirements into functional features and business strategies. This test is a prerequisite for the next test, which is a laboratory test to obtain the CCDE certificate.

Second stage: passing the laboratory test

Next, you will take an 8-hour lab test (CCDE v3.0). The exam covers a variety of scenarios, and the candidate can choose one. In addition to validating enterprise architecture technologies, it provides flexibility to include topics related to your area of ​​expertise.

Like all Cisco exams, the CCDE v3.0 lab exam is conducted in Cisco certification centers. This exam focuses on design analysis and its key features, such as requirements and implementation. Test candidates must be able to develop network plans, justify design decisions, and optimize network design. They should also be able to solve business problems and build network designs.

Prerequisites for participating in CCDE certification exams

To ensure the tests are successful, applicants must have deep technical knowledge in evaluating and advancing the design of extensive network infrastructure.
Fortunately, there are no prerequisites for taking the CCDE certification exams. However, candidates who already have 3 to 4 years of practical experience in the fields related to their exam feel more prepared to take it.

Salary of CCDE-certified professionals

The demand for CCDE-certified professionals is higher than expected. Cisco is regarded as the most trusted certification provider in the IT industry. Therefore, if you have succeeded in obtaining the CCDE, you have been approved by one of the world’s most well-known and trusted companies. With such a valuable certificate, you will enjoy more rights and benefits.

CCDE offers the best support for those trying to build a sought-after career in networking. Currently, salaries for Cisco Certified Professionals starting their careers range from $50,000 to $75,000 per year. If you have 3-4 years of work experience, your salary can be between 70-110 thousand dollars annually.