CISCO ENCOR 350-401 Exam Questions 2025

What is the Cisco 350-401 ENCOR Exam, and what will you learn from it?

The Cisco 350-401 ENCOR (Implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies) exam is a crucial step toward earning the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise certification. It also serves as the core exam for the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Enterprise Infrastructure and CCIE Enterprise Wireless tracks.

This exam is offered by Cisco, and it validates your ability to implement core enterprise network technologies, including dual-stack (IPv4 and IPv6) architecture, virtualization, infrastructure, network assurance, security, and automation.

By passing ENCOR 350-401, you will learn how to:

• Configure, manage, and troubleshoot enterprise-level networks.
• Implement virtualization and programmability within networks.
• Secure and automate large-scale networks for better efficiency and reliability.
• Prepare yourself for advanced Cisco specializations and higher-level roles in networking.

Exam Snapshot

Prerequisites before taking the 350-401 Exam

There are no formal prerequisites to attempt the Cisco 350-401 exam. However, Cisco strongly recommends:

• 3–5 years of experience in implementing enterprise networking solutions.
• A strong grasp of network fundamentals, routing and switching, and Cisco device configuration.
• Prior exposure to Cisco IOS XE and enterprise-level LAN/WAN technologies.

While not mandatory, earning the Cisco CCNA certification first provides a helpful foundation for success.

Main Objectives and Domains You Will Study for 350-401

The Cisco 350-401 exam covers six major domains of enterprise networking:

1. Architecture – 15%
2. Virtualization – 10%
3. Infrastructure – 30%
4. Network Assurance – 10%
5. Security – 20%
6. Automation – 15%

Topics to Cover in Each 350-401 Exam Domain

1. Architecture

• Understand enterprise network design principles (Campus LAN, WAN, SD-Access, etc.).
• Compare on-premises vs. cloud networking.
• Learn about wireless architectures and high availability protocols (HSRP, VRRP, GLBP).

2. Virtualization

• Master device and network virtualization concepts such as VRF, GRE, and VPNs.
• Implement Cisco SD-WAN and understand Cisco DNA Center basics.

3. Infrastructure

• Routing protocols: OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, and static routing.
• Layer 2 technologies: STP, EtherChannel, VLANs, and trunking.
• Layer 3 switching and IPv6 configurations.

4. Network Assurance

• Learn NetFlow, SPAN, and Syslog for monitoring and troubleshooting.
• Implement SNMP and model-driven telemetry for network visibility.

5. Security

• Secure control, management, and data planes.
• Implement ACLs, 802.1X, Cisco TrustSec, and device hardening.
• Integrate Cisco ISE for identity-based networking.

6. Automation

• Understand REST APIs, JSON, YANG, NETCONF, and Python scripting.
• Implement automation tools such as Ansible and Cisco DNA Center workflows.

Changes in the Latest Version of Cisco 350-401

The ENCOR exam has evolved to match the needs of modern enterprise networks. The latest version emphasizes:

• Network automation and programmability (Python, APIs, SDN concepts).
• Software-defined architectures (Cisco DNA, SD-Access).
• Cloud and virtualization integration.
• Greater focus on security frameworks and Zero Trust architectures.

Register and Schedule Your Cisco 350-401 Exam

You can register for the 350-401 exam via Pearson VUE:

1. Create or log in to your Cisco Certification account.
2. Choose the Implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR 350-401) exam.
3. Select your preferred language (English or Japanese).
4. Schedule the exam online or at a testing center.

You’ll receive your exam results immediately after completion.

Cisco 350-401 Exam Cost and Available Discounts

• Exam Fee: USD $400 (price may vary by region).

• Discount Options:
  • Cisco sometimes offers discount vouchers through training partners.
  • Students and military personnel may qualify for special pricing.
  • Group training packages via Cisco Learning Partners often include exam discounts.

Exam Policies You Should Know Before Taking Cisco 350-401

• You must bring valid government-issued photo ID.
• No personal items (phones, watches, notes) are allowed.
• You can retake the exam after 5 calendar days if you fail.
• Certification is valid for 3 years; recertification requires either retaking the exam or earning Continuing Education (CE) credits.

What Can You Expect on Your Cisco 350-401 Exam Day?

Expect a proctored environment either at a Pearson VUE center or online.
You’ll encounter:

• Scenario-based questions simulating real network issues.
• A blend of theory and hands-on configuration tasks.
• Tight time management requirements, so practice pacing yourself.

Take a few deep breaths before you start; it’s a comprehensive but achievable exam if you’re well-prepared.

Plan Your 350-401 Study Schedule Effectively with 5 Study Tips

Tip 1: Create a 12-week plan, dedicating at least 2–3 hours daily to one domain at a time.
Tip 2: Use Cisco’s official study materials (Cisco Press, ENCOR Official Cert Guide).
Tip 3: Join online forums or Discord groups where candidates share exam experiences.
Tip 4: Practice real exam scenarios through labs (Cisco Packet Tracer, GNS3, or EVE-NG).
Tip 5: Take mock exams and practice tests to measure your readiness.

Pro Tip: Use CertEmpire’s premium question files for real exam-like practice, one of the best resources available: Get your Cisco 350-401 exam questions at CertEmpire.

Best Study Resources You Can Use to Prepare for Cisco 350-401

• Cisco Press Books: “Implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR) Official Cert Guide.”
• Cisco Learning Network: Access free videos, practice labs, and community discussions.
• CertEmpire Practice Exam: Reliable, updated question banks for real-world practice.
• Boson ExSim or CBT Nuggets: Great for simulated practice exams and video lessons.
• Hands-on Labs: Use EVE-NG, GNS3, or Packet Tracer for real practice.

Career Opportunities You Can Explore After Earning Cisco 350-401

Passing the Cisco 350-401 exam opens doors to various high-demand roles, such as:

• Network Engineer
• Enterprise Infrastructure Specialist
• Network Security Engineer
• Wireless Network Engineer
• Network Consultant or Architect

These roles often come with salaries ranging from $90,000 to over $ 130,000 annually, depending on experience and region.

Certifications to Go for After Completing Cisco 350-401

Once you’ve cleared 350-401, consider pursuing:

• CCNP Enterprise (specialization exam required)
• CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure or Wireless
• Cisco DevNet Professional for automation-focused careers
• Cisco Security Core (SCOR 350-701) for network security specialization

How Does Cisco 350-401 Compare to Other Beginner-Level Cloud Certifications?

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