About HCONM Exam
Why This Certification Matters for IT Pros in 2025
The way companies manage their IT infrastructure is shifting fast. More businesses are operating hybrid environments, meaning they use a mix of on-premises systems and cloud-based services. While cloud computing brings flexibility, it also brings complexity—networks now stretch across multiple locations, cloud providers, and data centers. Keeping everything secure, monitored, and optimized has become one of the biggest challenges IT teams face today.
That’s why hybrid cloud observability has become a major priority. Companies need professionals who can track network activity, identify security risks, troubleshoot performance issues, and ensure continuous uptime across both physical and virtual infrastructures.
This is exactly what the SolarWinds Hybrid Cloud Observability Network Monitoring cert validates. It proves that you have the skills to monitor, manage, and secure hybrid cloud networks effectively. If you work in network administration, cloud engineering, security analysis, or IT operations, getting certified is a solid way to show you’re capable of handling complex IT environments.
Why Hybrid Cloud Monitoring Skills Are in Demand
With more organizations moving critical business systems to the cloud, traditional network monitoring isn’t enough anymore. Even companies that still rely on on-premises systems are integrating cloud-based services for scalability and flexibility. The result? A mixed IT environment that needs constant monitoring to prevent downtime, security breaches, and performance slowdowns.
Businesses need IT professionals who can:
- Monitor and optimize hybrid cloud performance – Ensure smooth network operations across on-prem, private cloud, and public cloud environments.
- Detect security threats in real-time – Identify and mitigate cyber threats, unauthorized access, and network vulnerabilities before they cause damage.
- Troubleshoot connectivity issues – Solve latency, packet loss, and connectivity problems across different environments.
- Ensure compliance with data protection laws – Help organizations meet security standards and avoid legal issues related to data privacy regulations.
- Use automation to manage complex IT setups – Implement AI-driven monitoring and automated alerts to reduce manual troubleshooting and increase efficiency.
The SolarWinds Hybrid Cloud Observability cert makes it easier to prove you have these skills. Since hybrid cloud environments are now the standard for IT infrastructure, this certification gives you a competitive edge when applying for high-paying IT jobs.
Who Should Get This Certification?
Network Administrators
If you’re responsible for managing routers, switches, firewalls, and cloud-based networking tools, this cert proves you can monitor performance, troubleshoot issues, and keep the network running smoothly.
Cloud Engineers
Cloud networking works differently than traditional networking. Companies need engineers who can monitor, optimize, and troubleshoot cloud-based networks, especially across platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
Security Professionals
The bigger the network, the bigger the attack surface. Security risks increase when networks are spread across multiple cloud services and data centers. This cert proves that you can monitor hybrid networks for security threats, prevent attacks, and ensure compliance.
IT Managers & DevOps Engineers
If you’re responsible for IT operations, cloud deployments, or infrastructure automation, this cert shows you understand modern monitoring techniques, automation, and performance optimization in hybrid cloud setups.
Breaking Down the SolarWinds Hybrid Cloud Observability Exam
Key Topics Covered in the Exam
This exam isn’t just about learning SolarWinds tools. It tests your ability to apply network monitoring best practices in real-world hybrid cloud environments.
- Hybrid Cloud Fundamentals – Understanding how on-prem and cloud networks work together.
- Performance Monitoring & Network Traffic Analysis – Keeping applications and network performance at optimal levels.
- Security Monitoring & Compliance – Preventing data breaches and security threats in hybrid cloud setups.
- Cloud & On-Prem Network Integration – Learning how to monitor network activity across AWS, Azure, and on-prem devices.
- Troubleshooting & Alerts – Knowing how to detect and fix performance issues before they cause outages.
- Automation & AI-driven Monitoring – Using automated alerts, AI-based analytics, and intelligent troubleshooting tools to streamline network management.
Exam Format & Difficulty
- 60 questions
- 90-minute duration
- Multiple-choice and scenario-based questions
- Available online & in test centers
- Moderate difficulty – Easier for those with hands-on experience
Exam Cost & Availability
The exam typically costs $199-$249, depending on your location. You can take it online through a proctored exam system or at an authorized test center.
How to Prepare for the Hybrid Cloud Observability Exam Without Wasting Time
Is SolarWinds Official Training Worth It?
SolarWinds provides official training courses, but they can be expensive. Some candidates find them useful, but others prefer self-study using books, online courses, and practice exams.
Best Books, Guides & Online Resources
Many websites and books claim to help you prepare for the exam, but some are outdated. Make sure to use recent materials that cover modern hybrid cloud monitoring techniques.
Hands-On Practice is Key
This cert is heavily focused on real-world scenarios. Setting up a test lab and practicing with SolarWinds monitoring tools will give you a huge advantage over just reading books.
If possible, try installing and configuring SolarWinds solutions in a test environment. This will help you understand how the tools work in a live IT setup.
The Importance of Practice Tests & Mock Exams
Taking mock tests is one of the best ways to prepare for this exam. It helps you:
- Get used to the question format – So you don’t get caught off guard by unexpected questions.
- Identify weak areas that need more study – So you know where to focus your efforts.
- Manage your time effectively – So you don’t run out of time on test day.
Practice tests also help you build confidence and reduce exam anxiety, so you can stay calm and focused when taking the real test.
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