CCNP Data Center Exam Questions for 300-635 Certification Success
- CertiMaan
- Oct 22, 2025
- 16 min read
Updated: Jun 23
The CCNP Data Center Certification is an advanced-level Cisco certification designed for IT professionals who want to validate their expertise in designing, implementing, operating, and troubleshooting modern data center infrastructures. This certification focuses on critical technologies such as data center networking, storage networking, compute systems, automation, virtualization, security, and Cisco data center solutions. Earning the CCNP Data Center credential demonstrates that a candidate possesses the skills required to manage complex enterprise data center environments and support digital transformation initiatives.
This certification is ideal for network engineers, data center administrators, systems engineers, infrastructure architects, technical consultants, and IT professionals who work with Cisco data center technologies. Whether you are looking to advance your career in enterprise networking or strengthen your expertise in data center operations, the CCNP Data Center certification provides industry-recognized validation of your technical capabilities.
On this page, you will find carefully designed CCNP Data Center sample questions, exam-focused insights, preparation guidance, and valuable information to help you understand the certification requirements. These practice questions are intended to familiarize candidates with the exam format, improve conceptual understanding, and identify knowledge gaps before attempting the actual certification exam.
Using practice questions is one of the most effective ways to prepare for the CCNP Data Center exam. They help reinforce important concepts, improve time management skills, and build confidence by simulating real exam scenarios. By regularly reviewing questions and explanations, candidates can strengthen their understanding of Cisco data center technologies and develop a structured approach to exam preparation.
If you are preparing for the CCNP Data Center Certification exam, this resource will help you gain better insight into exam objectives, improve readiness, and enhance your chances of certification success through focused and practical preparation.
Table of Contents
CCNP Data Center Certification - Exam Details
Exam Detail | Information |
Certification Name | CCNP Data Center Certification |
Provider | Cisco |
Certification Level | Professional Level |
Required Exams | One Core Exam + One Concentration Exam |
Core Exam Code | DCCOR 350-601 (Implementing and Operating Cisco Data Center Core Technologies) |
Concentration Exam Options | DCACI 300-620, DCIT 300-615, DCAUTO 300-635, DCID 300-610 and others (subject to Cisco updates) |
Exam Format | Multiple Choice, Drag-and-Drop, Simulation-Based Questions, Scenario-Based Questions |
Core Exam Duration | 120 Minutes |
Concentration Exam Duration | Approximately 90 Minutes |
Passing Score | Cisco does not publicly disclose passing scores |
Delivery Method | Pearson VUE Testing Centers and Online Proctored Exam |
Certification Focus Areas | Data Center Networking, Compute, Storage Networking, Automation, Security, Virtualization |
Recommended Experience | 3–5 years working with enterprise data center technologies |
Difficulty Level | Advanced |
Certification Validity | 3 Years |
Target Audience | Data Center Engineers, Network Engineers, Systems Engineers, Infrastructure Architects, Technical Consultants |
Official Exam Language | English and selected regional languages where available |
Exam Cost | Varies by country and exam type; refer to Cisco's official certification portal |
Prerequisites | No formal prerequisite, but strong knowledge of Cisco data center technologies is recommended |
How to Prepare for the CCNP Data Center Certification Exam
Preparing for the CCNP Data Center Certification requires a combination of theoretical knowledge, hands-on experience, and consistent practice. Since this is a professional-level Cisco certification, candidates should focus on understanding how modern data center technologies work together rather than simply memorizing concepts.
Build a Strong Foundation in Core Technologies
Begin your preparation by studying the topics covered in the DCCOR 350-601 core exam. Key domains include data center networking, Cisco Nexus switching, Cisco UCS, storage networking, network assurance, security, automation, and virtualization. Understanding these foundational concepts will help you tackle both the core and concentration exams more effectively.
Gain Hands-On Experience
Practical experience is one of the most important factors for success in the CCNP Data Center exam. Work with technologies such as:
Cisco Nexus switches
Cisco UCS platforms
Fibre Channel and SAN environments
VXLAN and EVPN technologies
Cisco ACI fundamentals
Data center automation tools
Virtualized infrastructure platforms
Hands-on practice helps reinforce theoretical concepts and prepares you for scenario-based exam questions.
Use Practice Exams Strategically
Practice questions and mock exams should be a key part of your study plan. They help you:
Understand the exam format
Improve time management
Identify weak knowledge areas
Increase confidence before exam day
Reinforce technical concepts through repetition
Rather than focusing only on correct answers, review explanations carefully to understand why each answer is right or wrong.
Create a Structured Study Plan
A successful preparation strategy often includes:
Week | Focus Area |
1–2 | Data Center Networking Fundamentals |
3–4 | Cisco Nexus & Switching Technologies |
5–6 | Storage Networking & SAN Concepts |
7–8 | Cisco UCS & Compute Infrastructure |
9–10 | Security, Automation & Virtualization |
11–12 | Practice Exams & Revision |
Adjust the schedule according to your experience level and available study time.
Analyze Weak Areas Regularly
After each practice test, track topics where you consistently lose points. Many candidates discover that automation, storage networking, or troubleshooting scenarios require additional attention. Spending extra time on weak domains can significantly improve overall exam readiness.
Focus on Real Exam Scenarios
The CCNP Data Center exam often tests practical decision-making skills. Study real-world deployment scenarios, troubleshooting workflows, and operational best practices. Understanding how technologies interact in enterprise environments is critical for success.
With a disciplined study plan, hands-on practice, and consistent use of sample questions, you can build the knowledge and confidence needed to successfully earn the CCNP Data Center Certification.
Reviewed & Verified by CertiMaan Certification Support Team
This CCNP Data Center Certification sample questions page has been carefully reviewed by the CertiMaan Certification Support Team to help ensure accuracy, relevance, and alignment with current Cisco Data Center certification objectives. Our goal is to provide certification candidates with reliable learning resources that support exam preparation and strengthen real-world data center knowledge.
The practice questions, preparation guidance, and educational content presented on this page are designed to help aspiring professionals understand key data center technologies, improve technical proficiency, and prepare more effectively for the CCNP Data Center certification exam. Every effort is made to keep the content aligned with Cisco's official exam blueprint and commonly tested technical domains.
To maintain quality and relevance, our team periodically reviews certification objectives, Cisco technology updates, exam trends, and industry best practices. We focus on helping learners develop conceptual understanding rather than memorizing answers, ensuring that preparation efforts contribute to both certification success and practical job performance.
Review Methodology
Our review process includes:
Verification of certification objectives against Cisco's published exam topics
Evaluation of data center networking concepts and deployment scenarios
Review of automation, virtualization, and infrastructure technologies
Assessment of troubleshooting methodologies and operational best practices
Continuous updates based on certification ecosystem changes
Why This Review Matters
Candidates preparing for the CCNP Data Center certification often face complex topics involving networking, compute, storage, automation, and security. A structured review process helps ensure that the learning materials remain technically accurate, educationally valuable, and aligned with current industry expectations.
Topics Reviewed
Cisco Nexus Switching
Data Center Networking
Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS)
Storage Networking (SAN)
Data Center Virtualization
Cisco ACI Fundamentals
Infrastructure Automation & Programmability
Data Center Security
Troubleshooting Methodologies
Enterprise Data Center Operations
Content Status: Reviewed for educational accuracy and certification relevance.
Career Benefits of CCNP Data Center Certification
The CCNP Data Center Certification is a valuable credential for IT professionals seeking to advance their careers in enterprise infrastructure, cloud-enabled data centers, virtualization, and modern networking environments. As organizations continue to invest in digital transformation, hybrid cloud architectures, and automation-driven operations, the demand for skilled data center professionals remains strong across multiple industries.
Demonstrates Advanced Technical Expertise
Achieving the CCNP Data Center certification validates your ability to work with complex Cisco data center technologies, including networking, compute, storage, automation, and virtualization. Employers often view this certification as evidence that a candidate possesses practical knowledge required to support mission-critical infrastructure.
Enhances Professional Credibility
Cisco certifications are widely recognized throughout the IT industry. The CCNP Data Center credential demonstrates a commitment to professional development and continuous learning. It can help distinguish you from other candidates when applying for infrastructure, networking, and data center-related roles.
Expands Career Opportunities
Organizations across industries—including finance, healthcare, telecommunications, manufacturing, government, and technology services—rely on skilled professionals to manage their data center environments. CCNP Data Center certification can support career growth into roles such as:
Data Center Engineer
Senior Network Engineer
Infrastructure Engineer
Systems Engineer
Data Center Administrator
Technical Solutions Architect
Cloud Infrastructure Engineer
Network Operations Engineer
Data Center Consultant
Automation Engineer
Builds Skills Relevant to Modern IT Environments
The certification covers technologies that are highly relevant in today's enterprise environments, including:
Cisco Nexus Switching
Cisco UCS Platforms
Storage Area Networks (SAN)
Virtualization Technologies
Software-Defined Infrastructure
Infrastructure Automation
Network Programmability
Data Center Security
These skills are increasingly important as organizations modernize their infrastructure and adopt automation-driven operations.
Supports Long-Term Career Growth
Many experienced professionals use the CCNP Data Center certification as a stepping stone toward more advanced Cisco certifications and specialized infrastructure roles. The knowledge gained during preparation can improve problem-solving abilities, architectural understanding, and operational efficiency in real-world environments.
Aligns with Industry Trends
Modern enterprises require professionals who can manage scalable, secure, and automated data center infrastructures. The CCNP Data Center certification helps candidates develop expertise that aligns with current trends in cloud integration, automation, virtualization, and enterprise networking.
For professionals seeking to strengthen their technical credentials and demonstrate expertise in Cisco data center technologies, the CCNP Data Center Certification can be a significant career-enhancing investment.
40+ CCNP Data Center Certification Exam Questions List :
1. A set of automation scripts work with no issue from a local machine, but an experiment needs to take place with a new package found online. How is this new package isolated from the main code base?
Add the new package to your requirements.txt file.
Create a new virtual machine and perform a pip install of the new package.
Perform a pip install of the new package when logged into your local machine as root.
Create a new virtual environment and perform a pip install of the new package.
2. Which two benefits of using network configuration tools such as Ansible and Puppet to automate data center platforms are valid? (Choose two.)
consistency of systems configuration
automation of repetitive tasks
ability to create device and interface groups
ability to add VLANs and routes per device
3. Which two items are types of application isolation options available when Kubernetes is deployed with the ACI CNI plug-in? (Choose two.)
VM Isolation
Cluster Isolation
Server Isolation
Process Isolation
Namespace Isolation
4. Which two items are types of application isolation options available when Kubernetes is deployed with the ACI CNI plug-in? (Choose two.)
VM Isolation
Cluster Isolation
Server Isolation
Process Isolation
Namespace Isolation
5. How should the Kubernetes manifests be modified to allow Kubernetes environment integration with Cisco ACI?
The metadata section must contain the Cisco APIC management IP.
The manifest does not have to be changed, but the Kubernetes object is not discovered by Cisco ACI if this is not defined in the manifest.
The manifests must include ACI EPG reference.
No change is needed to perform this action.
6. How should the Kubernetes manifests be modified to allow Kubernetes environment integration with Cisco ACI?
The metadata section must contain the Cisco APIC management IP.
The manifest does not have to be changed, but the Kubernetes object is not discovered by Cisco ACI if this is not defined in the manifest.
The manifests must include ACI EPG reference.
No change is needed to perform this action.
7. Which Kubernetes container network interface provides intent-based networking from the same pane of glass that VMs and bare-metal servers are managed?
ACI CNI plug-in
Contiv CNI plug-in
Ingress CNI plug-in
Calico CNI plug-in
8. What is the default data encoding for the response output of the ACI APIC API inspector?
CSV
JSON
XML
YAML
9. What is a key characteristic of an ACI policy model?
Logical and concrete domains are separated.
All configuration is carried out against concrete entities.
It allows communications with newly connected devices.
Network administrators configure logical and physical system resources directly.
10. Which Kubernetes container network interface provides intent-based networking from the same pane of glass that VMs and bare-metal servers are managed?
ACI CNI plug-in
Contiv CNI plug-in
Ingress CNI plug-in
Calico CNI plug-in
11. When should the API Inspector be used?
to send an API request to the APIC
to learn or identify the sequence of API calls for a specific operation in the APIC GUI
to verify the XML structure of an object based on a specific operation in the APIC GUI
to launch an Ansible playbook
12. What is a key characteristic of an ACI policy model?
Logical and concrete domains are separated.
All configuration is carried out against concrete entities.
It allows communications with newly connected devices.
Network administrators configure logical and physical system resources directly.
13. During the process of starting a Python network telemetry collector, which command starts the Cisco bigmuddy-network-telemetry-collector from GitHub?
model driven telemetry
telemetry_receiver.py --ip-address --port
telemetry_receiver.py --destination --url
streaming telemetry
14. When should the API Inspector be used?
to send an API request to the APIC
to learn or identify the sequence of API calls for a specific operation in the APIC GUI
to verify the XML structure of an object based on a specific operation in the APIC GUI
to launch an Ansible playbook
15. When the Cisco bigmuddy-network-telemetry-collector from GitHub is used, which command displays only the message headers?
--print
--all
--brief
--print-all
16. Which action allows Docker daemon persistence during switchover on the Cisco Nexus 9500 Series Switches running Cisco NX-OS?
Change the Docker configuration to include the live restore option.
Copy the dockerpart file manually to the standby supervisor after performing the switchover.
Copy the dockerpart file manually to the standby supervisor before performing the switchover.
The system takes automatic action.
17. What are two differences between SNMP and model-driven telemetry? (Choose two.)
SNMP uses a continuous stream model.
SNMP uses a push model.
SNMP uses a pull model.
Model-driven telemetry uses a pull model.
Model-driven telemetry uses a push model.
18. What is a feature of model- driven telemetry?
randomizes the data out of the network
continuously streams data out of the network
randomizes the data coming to the network
continuously pulls data out of the network
19. Which two capabilities apply to the DCNM API? (Choose two.)
DCNM provides an XML-based SOAP API.
DCNM requires a license to use the API.
Some features of DCNM must be configured through the GUI.
All API operations can be performed using the DCNM GUI.
DCNM provides a REST-based API.
20. What are two capabilities of the DCNM REST API? (Choose two.)
uses the dcnm-token header for requests authentication after initial basic authentication
uses basic authentication without encoding for username and password
supports HTTP until release 11.0(1)
is separated into Classic LAN, LAN Fabric, Media Controller, and SAN Management categories
Exam Tips for CCNP Data Center Certification
Preparing for the CCNP Data Center Certification can feel challenging due to the breadth of technologies covered, but a strategic approach can significantly improve your chances of success. Understanding the exam structure, focusing on key domains, and practicing consistently are essential components of an effective preparation plan.
Understand the Exam Blueprint First
Before beginning your preparation, carefully review the official exam topics for both the DCCOR 350-601 core exam and your chosen concentration exam. The exam objectives serve as a roadmap and help ensure that you allocate study time appropriately across all domains.
Focus particularly on:
Data Center Networking
Cisco Nexus Technologies
Cisco UCS
Storage Networking
Virtualization
Data Center Security
Automation and Programmability
Troubleshooting Methodologies
Candidates often lose valuable marks by concentrating heavily on familiar topics while neglecting less familiar domains.
Practice Time Management
The CCNP Data Center exam contains technical and scenario-based questions that require careful analysis. During practice exams:
Avoid spending too much time on a single question.
Flag difficult questions and return to them later.
Learn to eliminate obviously incorrect answers quickly.
Develop a pace that allows time for review before submission.
Effective time management can prevent unnecessary exam-day stress.
Prioritize Hands-On Learning
Many exam questions test practical understanding rather than theoretical memorization. Whenever possible, gain experience with:
Cisco Nexus switching environments
Cisco UCS administration
Storage Area Networks (SAN)
VXLAN and EVPN technologies
Cisco ACI concepts
Automation and programmability tools
Hands-on exposure helps reinforce concepts and improves troubleshooting abilities.
Use Mock Exams Wisely
Practice exams are most valuable when used as a learning tool rather than a score-tracking exercise.
After each mock test:
Review every incorrect answer.
Understand the reasoning behind correct solutions.
Create notes on recurring weak areas.
Revisit challenging topics before taking another practice exam.
Consistent review often produces better results than simply taking large numbers of practice tests.
Focus on Troubleshooting Skills
Cisco professional-level exams frequently assess a candidate's ability to identify and resolve infrastructure issues. When studying, spend time analyzing:
Network connectivity problems
Storage communication issues
UCS configuration challenges
Automation workflow errors
Security-related incidents
Understanding troubleshooting processes can help you answer scenario-based questions more confidently.
Stay Calm on Exam Day
Exam anxiety can impact performance even when you're well prepared.
A few final recommendations:
Get adequate rest before the exam.
Arrive early or prepare your online testing environment in advance.
Read each question carefully.
Avoid rushing through complex scenarios.
Trust your preparation and experience.
The CCNP Data Center Certification is designed to validate professional-level expertise. By combining structured study, practical experience, and regular practice exams, you can approach the exam with confidence and improve your chances of certification success.
21. Which two components are required from the Cisco Intersight REST API Authentication? (Choose two.)
SHA256 hash of the message body and message headers.
SHA256 hash of the message body, including empty message bodies.
RSA private key with a key size of 2048.
RSA private key with a key size of 1024.
SHA384 hash of the message body, excluding empty message bodies.
22. Which two capabilities apply to the DCNM API? (Choose two.)
DCNM provides an XML-based SOAP API.
DCNM requires a license to use the API.
Some features of DCNM must be configured through the GUI.
All API operations can be performed using the DCNM GUI.
DCNM provides a REST-based API.
23. Which two statements describe the authentication method used with Cisco Intersight REST API Requests? (Choose two.)
The REST API request contains a base64-encoded signature of the message content and headers.
The REST API request message body is encoded as a SHA384 hash and then signed with the API Key ID.
The Cisco Intersight Web service verifies the signature of incoming request with the RSA public key for the API Key ID.
The incoming REST API request is challenged by the Cisco Intersight Web service with a request for the RSA private key.
24. Which programming language are the Cisco UCS Director custom workflow tasks written in?
C++
Python
Java
Cloupia Script
25. Which two statements apply to authentication when using the Cisco Intersight API? (Choose two.)
Each API Key can be assigned specific roles but not privileges.
Secret Key is only available at API Key creation time.
An API Key is composed of a Key ID and Secret Key.
The user credentials for the cisco.com accounts are shared with the Cisco Intersight Web Service.
26. A server profile with the string "WEST15" in its name must have the string "WEST15" changed to "LXT14". For example, server profile "VMHOST-WEST15-01" would need to be changed to "VMHOST-LXT14-01". Using the Cisco Intersight REST API in a Python script, which two GET API requests are used to retrieve just the server profile with the string "WEST15" in the name and the correct body for the API request to update the name? Assume the variable "sp_name" contains the name of the retrieved server profile. (Choose two.)
GET https://intersight.com/api/v1/server/Profiles?$select=Name&$filter=contains(Name, 'WEST15')
GET https://intersight.com/api/v1/server/Profiles?$select=Name&$filter=Name in('WEST15')
BODY = { "Name": sp_name.format('WEST15', 'LXT14') }
BODY = { "Name": sp_name.replace('WEST15','LXT14') }
27. During the process of starting a Python network telemetry collector, which command starts the Cisco bigmuddy-network-telemetry-collector from GitHub?
model driven telemetry
telemetry_receiver.py --ip-address --port
telemetry_receiver.py --destination --url
streaming telemetry
28. Which two statements about gRPC are true? (Choose two.)
It is an IETF draft.
It is an IETF standard.
It runs over SSH.
It runs over HTTPS.
29. What are two differences between SNMP and model-driven telemetry? (Choose two.)
SNMP uses a continuous stream model.
SNMP uses a push model.
SNMP uses a pull model.
Model-driven telemetry uses a push model.
30. What are two main guiding principles of REST? (Choose two.)
cacheable
trackable
stateless
single-layer system
31. Which two capabilities apply to the DCNM API? (Choose two.)
DCNM provides an XML-based SOAP API.
DCNM requires a license to use the API.
Some features of DCNM must be configured through the GUI.
DCNM provides a REST-based API.
32. Which two components are attributes of an ACI MIT managed object? (Choose two.)
MO
RN
UNI
DN
33. Which step must be taken to enable the REST API browser within Cisco UCS Director?
Edit the user profile and enable developer options.
Raise a case with TAC.
The REST API browser is automatically enabled in Cisco UCS Director when a Power User is created.
Log in as the user "REST".
34. How should the Kubernetes manifests be modified to allow Kubernetes environment integration with Cisco ACI?
The metadata section must contain the Cisco APIC management IP.
The manifest does not have to be changed, but the Kubernetes object is not discovered by Cisco ACI if this is not defined in the manifest.
The manifests must include ACI EPG reference.
No change is needed to perform this action. Answe
35. Which Ansible module is needed in to create a new VLAN 10 on the hosts defined in the "ucs" group?
vlan
ucs_vlans
vlans
nxos_vlans
36. When should the API Inspector be used?
to send an API request to the APIC
to learn or identify the sequence of API calls for a specific operation in the APIC GUI
to verify the XML structure of an object based on a specific operation in the APIC GUI
to launch an Ansible playbook
37. What are two main guiding principles of REST? (Choose two.)
cacheable
trackable
stateless
single-layer system
38. What are two differences between SNMP and model-driven telemetry? (Choose two.)
SNMP uses a continuous stream model.
SNMP uses a push model.
SNMP uses a pull model.
Model-driven telemetry uses a pull model.
Model-driven telemetry uses a push model.
39. A set of automation scripts work with no issue from a local machine, but an experiment needs to take place with a new package found online.How is this new package isolated from the main code base?
Add the new package to your requirements.txt file.
Create a new virtual machine and perform a pip install of the new package.
Perform a pip install of the new package when logged into your local machine as root.
Create a new virtual environment and perform a pip install of the new package.
40. Which two capabilities apply to the DCNM API? (Choose two.)
DCNM provides an XML-based SOAP API.
DCNM requires a license to use the API.
Some features of DCNM must be configured through the GUI.
DCNM provides a REST-based API.
CCNP Data Center Certification - FAQs
1. What is the CCNP Data Center Certification?
The CCNP Data Center Certification is a professional-level Cisco certification that validates skills in implementing, operating, securing, automating, and troubleshooting modern data center infrastructures. It focuses on technologies such as Cisco Nexus, Cisco UCS, storage networking, virtualization, and automation.
2. Who should pursue the CCNP Data Center Certification?
This certification is ideal for Data Center Engineers, Network Engineers, Systems Engineers, Infrastructure Administrators, Technical Consultants, and IT professionals responsible for managing enterprise data center environments.
3. What exams are required to earn the CCNP Data Center Certification?
Candidates must pass one core exam, DCCOR 350-601 (Implementing and Operating Cisco Data Center Core Technologies), and one concentration exam from the available Cisco Data Center specialization options.
4. Is the CCNP Data Center Certification difficult?
The certification is considered advanced because it covers a wide range of data center technologies, including networking, compute, storage, virtualization, security, and automation. Hands-on experience and structured preparation significantly improve success rates.
5. How long should I study for the CCNP Data Center exam?
Preparation time varies based on experience. Most candidates spend between two and six months studying, combining theoretical learning, lab practice, and mock exams.
6. What topics are covered in the CCNP Data Center Certification exam?
Major topics include data center networking, Cisco Nexus switching, Cisco UCS, storage networking, network assurance, security, automation, programmability, virtualization, and troubleshooting.
7. Are practice questions useful for CCNP Data Center exam preparation?
Yes. Practice questions help candidates become familiar with the exam format, identify weak areas, improve time management skills, and reinforce important technical concepts through repeated exposure.
8. Does CCNP Data Center require hands-on experience?
While there are no mandatory prerequisites, hands-on experience with Cisco data center technologies is highly recommended. Practical knowledge often helps candidates understand scenario-based and troubleshooting questions more effectively.
9. What job roles can benefit from CCNP Data Center Certification?
The certification can support careers such as Data Center Engineer, Senior Network Engineer, Infrastructure Engineer, Cloud Infrastructure Engineer, Systems Engineer, Data Center Consultant, and Network Operations Engineer.
10. How long is the CCNP Data Center Certification valid?
Cisco certifications generally remain valid for three years. Candidates can renew their certification through continuing education activities or by meeting Cisco recertification requirements.
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