CCNP ENT
Cisco CCNP Enterprise (350-401 ENCOR)
The Cisco CCNP Enterprise core exam (350-401 ENCOR) validates advanced enterprise networking skills for senior network engineers. It covers dual-stack (IPv4/IPv6) architecture, SD-WAN and SD-Access, advanced routing (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, route redistribution), virtualization, Cisco DNA Center-driven network assurance, enterprise security, and network automation with Python and REST APIs.
CCNP ENT Exam Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cisco CCNP Enterprise (350-401 ENCOR) |
| Governing Body | Cisco |
| Number of Questions | 100 |
| Time Limit | 120 minutes |
| Passing Score | 825/1000 (scaled) |
| Exam Fee | $400 USD |
| Category | IT Certifications |
| C3RT App Available On | iPhone, iPad, and Mac |
| Official Source | Cisco official website ↗ |
CCNP ENT Content Areas and Domains
| Domain / Content Area | Exam Weight |
|---|---|
| Architecture | 15% |
| Virtualization | 10% |
| Infrastructure | 30% |
| Network Assurance | 10% |
| Security | 15% |
| Automation | 20% |
Domain weights are approximate and based on the Cisco content outline. Always verify at the official source before your exam.
Topics Covered
- ✓ Architecture — SD-Access, SD-WAN, Cisco DNA Center, LISP/VXLAN overlay, Cisco NX-OS data center
- ✓ Virtualization — server virtualization, network function virtualization (NFV), network overlays (VXLAN, GRE)
- ✓ Infrastructure — advanced routing (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, route redistribution), HSRP/VRRP/GLBP, multicast
- ✓ Network Assurance — Cisco DNA Center telemetry, Cisco ThousandEyes, NetFlow, SPAN/RSPAN, IP SLA
- ✓ Security — AAA, 802.1X, MACsec, TrustSec, site-to-site and remote access VPN, endpoint security
- ✓ Automation — Python for networking, REST APIs, Ansible basics, Cisco DevNet, YANG/NETCONF
How C3RT Helps You Pass the CCNP ENT
Adaptive Practice
Questions adapt to your weak areas automatically so every study session on the CCNP ENT is time well spent.
Diagnostic Mocks
Full-length mock exams timed to the real CCNP ENT format with detailed score breakdowns by topic.
Mistake Bank
Every wrong answer is saved for targeted re-drill. The system resurfaces your mistakes until they stick.
Native on iOS & Mac
Built with SwiftUI, not a web wrapper. Instant load, offline support, hardware-speed rendering.
CCNP ENT Frequently Asked Questions
What does CCNP ENT stand for?
CCNP ENT stands for Cisco CCNP Enterprise (350-401 ENCOR). It is administered by Cisco.
Who administers the CCNP ENT?
The Cisco CCNP Enterprise (350-401 ENCOR) (CCNP ENT) is administered by Cisco. For official information, visit the Cisco website.
How many questions is the CCNP ENT?
The CCNP ENT consists of 100 questions. Candidates are given 120 minutes to complete the exam.
What is the passing score for the CCNP ENT?
The passing score for the CCNP ENT is 825/1000 (scaled), as set by Cisco. Scoring methodology and passing standards may be updated periodically. Always verify current requirements with the governing body.
How much does the CCNP ENT exam cost?
The CCNP ENT exam fee is $400 USD. This fee is set by Cisco and may vary by testing centre, region, or membership status. Additional fees for registration or rescheduling may apply.
What is the CCNP Enterprise exam structure?
CCNP Enterprise requires passing 2 exams: the core exam (350-401 ENCOR) plus one concentration exam. Concentration options include: 300-410 ENARSI (advanced routing), 300-415 ENSDWI (SD-WAN), 300-420 ENSLD (design), 300-425 ENWLSD (wireless design), 300-430 ENWLSI (wireless implementation), and 300-435 ENAUTO (automation). The core exam also counts as the CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure written exam.
What is Cisco SD-Access and why is it on ENCOR?
SD-Access (Software-Defined Access) is Cisco's campus fabric solution that uses DNA Center as a centralized controller to automate network policy, segment traffic with TrustSec SGTs (Security Group Tags), and provide macro and micro-segmentation. It uses LISP for control-plane endpoint mapping and VXLAN for data-plane transport. ENCOR tests SD-Access architecture because it represents Cisco's current enterprise campus strategy.
Do I need CCNA before CCNP?
Officially, Cisco removed the CCNA prerequisite for CCNP in 2020 — you can take CCNP ENCOR directly. However, ENCOR assumes thorough CCNA-level knowledge. Subnetting, OSPF, VLANs, and Cisco IOS CLI must be second nature before attempting ENCOR. Most candidates who skip CCNA find ENCOR significantly harder.
How long does CCNP Enterprise preparation typically take?
CCNP ENCOR typically requires 4–8 months of preparation for candidates with solid CCNA-level experience, with 2–4 hours of daily study. Hands-on lab practice with physical or virtual Cisco equipment (using CML — Cisco Modeling Labs) is essential. Mastery of BGP, OSPF route redistribution, SD-WAN architecture, and Python scripting are the most challenging and important topics.
How difficult is the Cisco CCNP Enterprise exam?
The Cisco CCNP Enterprise consists of a core exam (350-401 ENCOR) and one concentration exam. ENCOR is considered advanced in difficulty, covering enterprise routing, switching, wireless, and automation at a deep level. Pass rates are not published, but most candidates need 6+ months of study. The concentration exams vary in difficulty by topic area.
What are the eligibility requirements for Cisco CCNP Enterprise?
There are no formal prerequisites, though Cisco strongly recommends CCNA-level knowledge and 3–5 years of enterprise networking experience before attempting CCNP. In practice, most successful CCNP candidates hold a CCNA and have several years of networking experience.
How long should I study for Cisco CCNP Enterprise?
Most candidates need 6–12 months of preparation for ENCOR plus 2–4 months for each concentration exam. Official Cisco Press guides, INE or CBT Nuggets video courses, and extensive lab practice are the standard preparation approach. The depth and breadth of ENCOR content makes it one of the most demanding intermediate certification exams in networking.
What career value does Cisco CCNP Enterprise provide?
CCNP Enterprise holders are qualified for senior network engineer, network architect, and network consultant roles. Salaries typically range from $80,000 to $130,000+, with higher earnings in service provider and large enterprise environments. The CCNP is a strong platform for advancement toward Cisco CCIE.
What is the Cisco CCNP retake policy?
After a first failure, a 5-day wait applies. After a second or subsequent failure, a 180-day wait applies. The 180-day rule applies per exam component (core or concentration) independently.
How long is Cisco CCNP Enterprise valid?
CCNP Enterprise is valid for three years. Renewal requires either passing any CCNP-level or higher Cisco exam, passing a CCIE/CCDE written exam, earning 80 CE credits, or completing other approved Cisco Continuing Education Program activities.
What continuing education is required for Cisco CCNP Enterprise renewal?
CCNP holders need 80 CE credits over three years to recertify without retaking an exam. Cisco's CE program includes approved Cisco training, DevNet courses, and third-party continuing education. Passing a CCIE lab or written exam automatically renews all lower-level Cisco credentials.
How does CCNP Enterprise compare to Cisco CCNA for career advancement?
CCNA validates foundational networking proficiency and is the standard entry-level Cisco credential. CCNP Enterprise is a professional-level credential that demonstrates advanced enterprise network design, configuration, and troubleshooting skills. Most network engineers use CCNA as the foundation and pursue CCNP after gaining 2–5 years of experience. For senior network engineering or architecture roles, CCNP is the expected minimum qualification.
C3RT is a native iOS and macOS exam preparation platform covering the Cisco CCNP Enterprise (350-401 ENCOR) (CCNP ENT), a IT Certifications certification, administered by Cisco. C3RT is not affiliated with or endorsed by Cisco. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective organisations. For official exam registration, eligibility requirements, and content outlines, visit the Cisco official website ↗ .