Cisco is an evolving network with numerous of opportutnties within itself. Among these demanding certification programs, the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification stands out. With numerous benefits, from improved career prospects to marketability in the IT industry, certifications in this niche are in high demand.
In 2026, when competition in the tech market is high, let’s examine what it’s like to earn Cisco CCIE certification and how many certifications fall under this segment. In this blog, we will provide detailed insights into the CCIE Certifications, the programs they offer, their requirements, and more.
What Are Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert Certifications?
CCIE stands for Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert, a Cisco certification. Candidates interested in obtaining these certifications must pass two exams(the written and the practical exam). Each exam tests the skills needed to design, implement, and troubleshoot Cisco-based networks.
This series of technical certifications is intended for individuals seeking professional-level certification and is sub-categorized into seven certifications, covering network infrastructure through wireless networking.
Types Of CCIE Certifications
CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure
- This certification validates skills in designing, deploying, and optimizing complex enterprise infrastructure solutions using Cisco systems.
- Obtaining this certification requires you to pass two exams: a core exam and a hands-on lab.
- This exam does not require any prerequisites, but having five to seven years of experience within networking technologies and solutions is recommended before taking the exam.
Exam Details
| Exam Details | Core Exam | Practical Exam |
Description | This exam will signify the expertise of implementing the core enterprise network technologies, which include dual stack (IPv4 and IPv6) | The lab exam will test an individual’s ability to design and optimize dual-stack solutions (IPv4 and IPv6). |
| Exam Code | 350-401 ENCOR | CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure Lab Exam v1.1 |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes | 8 hours |
| Languages | English, Japanese | – |
| Grading | Pass/Fail | – |
| Exam Cost | USD 400 or Cisco Learning Credits | USD 1,600 or Cisco Learning Credits |
Exam Objectives | Architecture (15%)Virtualization (10%)Infrastructure (30%)Network Assurance (10%)Security (20%)Automation and Artificial Intelligence (15%) | Network Infrastructure (30%)Software Defined Infrastructure (25%)Transport Technologies and Solutions (15%)Infrastructure Security and Services (15%)Infrastructure Automation and Programmability (15%) |
CCIE Enterprise Wireless
- This certification assesses an individual’s ability to design, operate, and deploy complex enterprise wireless networks.
- To obtain this certification, candidates must pass the core and lab exams.
- No prerequisites are required, though candidates are recommended to have 5-7 years of experience in designing and operating the enterprise wireless technologies and solutions.
Exam Details
| Exam Details | Core Exam | Practical Exam |
Description | This exam will test the knowledge of executing the core enterprise network technologies along with dual stack (IPv4 and IPv6) | Tests the practical critical ability to design and operate the complex enterprise collaboration solutions. |
| Exam Code | 350-401 ENCOR v1.2 | CCIE Enterprise Wireless Lab Exam v1.1 |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes | 8 hours |
| Languages | English, Japanese | – |
| Grading | Pass/Fail | – |
| Exam Cost | USD 400 or Cisco Learning Credits | USD 1,600 or Cisco Learning Credits |
Exam Objectives | Architecture (15%)Virtualization (10%)Infrastructure (30%)Network Assurance (10%)Security (20%)Automation and Artificial Intelligence (15%) | Radio Frequency and Standards (15%)Enterprise Wired Campus (10%)Enterprise Wireless Network (25%)Wireless Security and Identity Management (20%)Wireless Services(20%)Automation, Analytics, and Assurance (10%) |
CCIE Collaboration Certification
- This certification validates candidates’ professional skills in planning, designing, and implementing complex enterprise collaboration solutions.
- To earn this certification, candidates must pass both the core and lab exams.
- No prerequisites are required; however, 5-7 years of experience with collaboration technologies is recommended.
Exam Details
| Exam Details | Core Exam | Practical Exam |
Description | This exam will test knowledge of executing core collaboration technologies, from network and design to collaboration applications. | Tests the practical skills needed to implement the complex enterprise collaboration solutions. |
| Exam Code | 350-801 CLCOR | CCIE Collaboration v3.1 |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes | 8 hours |
| Languages | English | – |
| Grading | Pass/Fail | – |
| Exam Cost | USD 400 or Cisco Learning Credits | USD 1,600 or Cisco Learning Credits |
Exam Objectives | Infrastructure and Design (20%)Protocols, Codecs, and Endpoints (20%)Cisco IOS XE Gateway and Media Resources (15%)Call Control (25%)QoS (10%)Collaboration Applications (10%) | Protocols and APIs (10%)Infrastructure and Quality of Services (10%)Call Control and Dial plan (20%)Endpoints and User Management (10%)Edge Services (20%)Media Resources and Meetings (15%)Collaboration Applications and Services (15%) |
CCIE Data Center certification
- This certification signifies advanced skills in designing, operating, and executing data center networks.
- Obtaining this certification leads you to passing two exams: core and lab.
- No prerequisites are required for this exam, except 5-7 years of recommended experience in the niche.
Exam Details
| Exam Details | Core Exam | Practical Exam |
Description | This exam assesses participants’ knowledge of implementing core data center technologies. | With this exam, candidates advance their practical skills in designing complex data center networks. |
| Exam Code | 350-601 DCCOR | CCIE Data Center (v3.1) |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes | 8 hours |
| Languages | English, Japanese | – |
| Grading | Pass/Fail | – |
| Exam Cost | USD 400 or Cisco Learning Credits | USD 1,600 or Cisco Learning Credits |
Exam Objectives | Network (25%)Compute (25%)Storage Network(20%)Automation and Artificial Intelligence (15%)Security (15%) | Data Center L2/L3 Connectivity(20%)Data Center Fabric Infrastructure(15%)Data Center Fabric Connectivity (15%)Data Center Compute(15%)Data Center Storage Protocols and Features (10%)Data Center Security and Network Services (10%)Data Center Automation and Orchestration(15%) |
CCIE Security Certification
- This certification tests a candidate’s ability to design and secure advanced enterprise networks. It assesses how effectively you can protect your systems against modern cyber threats.
- To earn this certification, individuals must pass the core and lab exams.
- No prerequisites are required for this certification except for recommended experience in the preferred niche.
Exam Details
| Exam Details | Core Exam | Practical Exam |
Description | This exam assesses an individual’s expertise in protecting the system from cyber threats. | The exam assesses hands-on knowledge of firewalls, VPNs, intrusion prevention, and secure access, along with the design of dual-stack IPv4 and IPv6 networks. |
| Exam Code | 350-701 SCOR | CCIE Security Lab Exam v6.1 |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes | 8 hours |
| Languages | English, Japanese | – |
| Grading | Pass/Fail | – |
| Exam Cost | USD 400 or Cisco Learning Credits | USD 1,600 or Cisco Learning Credits |
Exam Objectives | Security Concepts (25%)Network Security (20%)Securing the Cloud(15%)Content Security(15%)Endpoint Protection and Detection(10%)Secure Network Access, Visibility, and Enforcement (15%) | Perimeter Security and Intrusion Prevention (20%)Secure Connectivity and Segmentation (20%)Security Infrastructure (15%)Data Center Compute(15%)Identity Management, Information Exchange, and Access Control (25%)Advanced Threat Protection and Content Security (20%) |
CCIE Service Provider Certification
- This certification assesses expertise in managing and operating large-scale service provider networks. Obtaining this certification will assess the skills required for design, deployment, and ongoing operations.
- Candidates who are eligible for this certification must pass both the core and lab exams.
- For this exam, there are no prerequisites other than the recommended experience.
Exam Details
| Exam Details | Core Exam | Practical Exam |
Description | Validates the knowledge of candidates in executing the core service provider network technologies within the various domains listed below. | Tests the ability to plan and design the dual-stack solutions (IPv4 and IPv6). |
| Exam Code | 50-501 SPCOR | CCIE Service Provider v5.1 |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes | 8 hours |
| Languages | English | – |
| Grading | Pass/Fail | – |
| Exam Cost | USD 400 or Cisco Learning Credits | USD 1,600 or Cisco Learning Credits |
Exam Objectives | Architecture (15%)Networking (30%)MPLS and Segment Routing (20%)Services (20%)Automation and Assurance (15%) | Core Routing (25%)Architectures and Services (25%)Access Connectivity (10%)High Availability and Fast Convergence (10%)Security (10%)Assurance and Automation (20%) |
Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) Certification
- CCDE certification evaluates advanced network architecture and helps validate decision-making skills. It also demonstrates the skills of IT professionals in planning out the complex IT infrastructures.
- Obtaining this credential requires you to take the written and practical exams, covering core and elective topics.
- At the beginning of the practical exam, candidates will be asked to choose one of the four electives.
- No prerequisites are required to take the exam, but 5-7 years of experience designing network solutions and related activities is required.
Exam Details
| Exam Details | Core Exam | Practical Exam |
Description | Test the knowledge in designing the most complex network solutions. | The exam focuses on core enterprise network architectures and technologies, as well as selective electives. |
| Exam Code | CCDE Written (400-007) exam v3.1 | CCDE practical exam v3.1 |
| Exam Duration | 2 hours | 8 hours |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice | – |
| No. of Questions | 90-110 questions | |
| Languages | English | – |
| Grading | Pass/Fail | – |
| Exam Cost | USD 450 or Cisco Learning Credits | USD 1,600 or Cisco Learning Credits |
Exam Objectives | Business Strategy Design (15%)Control, Data, Management Plane, and Operational Design (25%)Network Design(30%)Service Design (15%)Security Design(15%) | |
Elective Subjects | Cisco Certified Design Expert Specialist – AI InfrastructureCisco Certified Design Expert Specialist – Large Scale NetworksCisco Certified Design Expert Specialist – On-Prem and Cloud ServicesCisco Certified Design Expert Specialist – Workforce Mobility | – |
DevNet Expert Certification
- DevNet Expert certification tests the advanced skills in network automation and software development. Obtaining this credential will assess an individual’s ability to integrate applications with Cisco platforms and APIs.
- For this certification, candidates must pass the core and lab exams.
- No prerequisites for this exam, but some recommended experience with deploying and optimizing the NetDevps technologies and solutions.
Exam Details
| Exam Details | Core Exam | Practical Exam |
Description | Test your software development knowledge to align with using APIs and Cisco platforms. | This exam checks knowledge of automation tools, scripting, and programmable infrastructure. |
| Exam Code | Designing, Deploying, and Managing Network Automation Systems v2.0(350-901) | CCIE Automation Practical Exam v1.1. |
| Exam Duration | 120 minutes | 8 hours |
| Languages | English, Japanese | – |
| Grading | Pass/Fail | – |
| Exam Cost | USD 400 or Cisco Learning Credits | USD 1,600 or Cisco Learning Credits |
Exam Objectives | Network Automation (30%)Infrastructure as Code (30%)Operations (20%)AI in Automation (20%) | Software Design, Development, and Deployment (20%)Infrastructure as Code (30%)Network Programmability and Automation(25%)Containers (10%)Security (15%) |
Click here: The True Cost Of CCIE In 2026: Real Fees & Hidden Costs
What Its Like To Earn The CCIE Certification In 2026?
In 2026, we expect the IT market to become more competitive, and people are looking to advance their skills. Earning the CCIE Certification is a milestone, as it offers significant career advancement opportunities within Cisco’s network. Cisco is widely regarded as the leading supplier of wireless network solutions. Since this certification is designed for professionals, the plus point of availing this credential is that you get to have your hands on the technical positions that can help you grow and can lead you to better salary outcomes. A BLS report [1] states that technical support engineers are classified as computer network support specialists, with an annual salary range of approximately USD 73,340 to USD 121,920. The employment rate for computer support specialists is projected to increase by 5% over the next few years.
What Are The Career Opportunities That I Can Have With CCIE Certification?
Pursuing the CCIE certification can lead to numerous career-advancing opportunities, but these opportunities vary depending on the chosen certification, location, and personal experience. The table below outlines the career opportunities and annual salaries for each CCIE certification, along with their respective categories.
| Certifications | Career Opportunities | Annual Salary |
CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure | Enterprise Network Engineer [2] | USD 151K |
| Network architect [3] | USD 146,663 | |
| Network Security Engineer [4] | USD 124,948 | |
| CCIE Enterprise Wireless | Wireless network architect [5] | USD 160K |
| Wireless security specialist [6] | USD 89,251 | |
| Technical sales personnel | USD 83,193 | |
CCIE Collaboration Certification | Collaboration analyst | USD 95K |
| Telecom engineer | USD 101,220 | |
| Network architect | USD 115,100 | |
CCIE Data Center certification | Data center automation engineer | Usd 103,100 |
| Data security engineer | USD 120,100 | |
| Data center engineer | USD 90,000 | |
CCIE Security Certification | Penetration tester | USD 105,000 |
| Security engineer | USD 125,400 | |
| Security analyst | USD 109,000 | |
CCIE Service Provider Certification | Service provider network architect | USD 115,100 |
| IP engineer | USD 100,00 | |
| Technical sales personnel | USD 83,193 | |
Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) | Senior Network Design Engineer [7] | USD 123,900 |
| Network Architect | USD 157,400 | |
| Solutions Architect | USD 214,199 | |
DevNet Expert Certification | DevOps Engineer | USD 129,444 |
| SRE Architect | USD 140,300 | |
| Network Infrastructure Architect | USD 169,518 |
Read more: Cisco Gets Splunk for $28 Million, Making the Biggest Acquisition Deal Ever
5 Basic Steps That Can Help You Ace Any CCIE Certification On Your First Try!
Step 1: Get Insights From Official Study Guides
Before pursuing any CCIE certification, it is beneficial to look for resources provided by Cisco. Cisco offers numerous resources, such as Cisco U., to help you prepare for the certification exam. This helps you understand the core and practical exam domains in the most convenient way.
Step 2: Try Making Your Own Notes While Preparing
Initially, handwritten notes can also be helpful. We often hear that the brain processes written information much faster than learned information. You can prepare using your own notes rather than relying on other online resources. This will save you a lot of time and give you an idea of which domains may be difficult to understand.
Step 3: Join The Online Groups And Try Preparing In Groups
Preparing alone is less effective than preparing within the groups. While preparing in groups, you also get to see others’ perspectives and learn from them. Similarly, joining online forums helps you learn more about your certifications. You can observe one thing from multiple perspectives, which can lead to knowledge advancement.
Step 4: Try Using The Practice Questions From Reliable Sources
Using practice questions from a reliable website helps you better understand the key takeaways. Practice questions are a better way of revision since you get to know about the difficulties you might face in the actual exam. Purchasing practice questions from an authentic resource can help you understand the technicalities you might encounter and how to approach them.
Step 5: Try To Take Enough Sleep For Better Preparation
We often hear“your mind is your strongest weapon.” This is why relaxing your mind should be your first priority. A tired brain processes less information and takes longer than a fresh brain. This is why it is important to get enough sleep, eat well, and take care of yourself as you would your preparation.
Look Further: Cisco Certification Path: Take Your Networking Career to the Next Level
Conclusion
The Cisco CCIE certification highlights more than just technical expertise. These demanding credentials reflect the mastery of the complex networking solutions. Earning certifications demonstrates an individual’s expertise in developing, troubleshooting, and optimizing advanced network infrastructure within the Cisco ecosystem. It sets professionals apart by demonstrating the technical knowledge and skills required in the networking industry. CCIE stands out as a powerful tool for candidates who have the highest level of expertise and a problem-solving mindset.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the cost of the CCIE Certification in 2026?
The cost of the CCIE certification is divided into two exams. For the core exam, candidates will pay USD 400-USD 450, depending on the certification they choose, and the lab exam costs USD 1600. Candidates can also redeem the Cisco learning credits.
How many certifications are there under the category of CCIE certifications?
The CCIE certifications are subdivided into eight certifications that are as follows;
- CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure
- CCIE Enterprise Wireless
- CCIE Collaboration Certification
- CCIE Data Center certification
- CCIE Security Certification
- CCIE Service Provider Certification
- Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE)
- DevNet Expert Certification
Where can I find authentic practice questions for the CCIE certification?
Dumpsgate offers the most realistic and reliable practice questions at an affordable rate for the CCIE certification.
What is the cost of the Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) Certification?
The Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) Certification costs USD 450 for the core exam and USD 1600 for the lab exam. Candidates can also use the Cisco Learning Credits.
Article Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Occupational Outlook Handbook: Computer Support Specialists, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm.” Accessed in February 2026.
- Glassdoor. “Enterprise Network Engineer Salaries, https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/enterprise-network-engineer-salary-SRCH_KO0,27.htm.” Accessed in February 2026.
- Indeed. “Network architect salary in the United States, https://www.indeed.com/career/network-architect/salaries.” Accessed in February 2026.
- ZipRecruiter. “Network Security Engineer, https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Network-Security-Engineer-Salary.” Accessed in February 2026.
- Glassdoor. “Wireless Network Architect Salaries, https://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/wireless-network-architect-salary-SRCH_KO0,26.htm.” Accessed in February 2026.
- ZipRecruiter. “Wireless Security Salary, https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Wireless-Security-Salary.” Accessed in February 2026.
- ZipRecruiter, “Senior Network Design Engineer Salary, https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Senior-Network-Design-Engineer-Salary.” Accessed in February 2026.
