Course Description

Course Overview

The Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR) course, specifically the 350-401 exam, focuses on providing participants with the knowledge and skills to implement and operate core technologies in Cisco enterprise networks. This course is designed for network professionals who are responsible for implementing and managing enterprise networks using Cisco technologies. The course covers a wide range of topics, including network infrastructure, virtualization, security, automation, and network assurance.

Prerequisites

To enroll in the ENCOR 350-401 course, participants should have a solid understanding of networking fundamentals, including TCP/IP, routing, switching, and VLANs. Familiarity with Cisco networking technologies and a basic understanding of network security concepts are recommended. It is beneficial to have completed the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification or possess equivalent knowledge.

Methodology

The ENCOR 350-401 course adopts a blended learning approach, combining theoretical concepts with practical hands-on labs and interactive discussions. The course materials are delivered through instructor-led lectures, demonstrations, and real-world scenarios. Participants will engage in hands-on lab exercises and simulation tools to practice and reinforce their understanding of the course material.

Course Outline

• Architecture and Virtualization
• Understanding enterprise network architecture and design principles
• Implementing network virtualization with VLANs and VRFs
• Deploying virtualization technologies (VXLAN, OTV, and LISP)
• Implementing network programmability and automation
• Infrastructure
• Implementing and managing Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching technologies
• Configuring and troubleshooting dynamic routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP)
• Implementing high-availability technologies (HSRP, VRRP, GLBP)
• Securing and optimizing enterprise networks
• Network Assurance
• Implementing and managing network monitoring and diagnostics
• Utilizing network telemetry and NetFlow for visibility and troubleshooting
• Implementing device management and configuration using Cisco DNA Center
• Implementing network assurance using Cisco DNA Assurance
• Security
• Understanding network security concepts and threats
• Implementing network access control with AAA (Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting)
• Securing network devices with device hardening and management best practices
• Implementing secure connectivity (IPsec VPN, SSL VPN, and DMVPN)
• Automation
• Understanding network automation and programmability concepts
• Implementing infrastructure automation using tools like Ansible and Puppet
• Using APIs and software development kits (SDKs) for network automation
• Implementing network orchestration using Cisco DNA Center

Course Outcome

Upon completion of the ENCOR 350-401 course, participants will be able to:

• Understand enterprise network architecture and design principles.
• Implement and manage network infrastructure technologies.
• Utilize network monitoring and diagnostics tools for network assurance.
• Implement network security measures to protect enterprise networks.
• Implement automation and programmability for network management.

Labs

The ENCOR 350-401 course includes hands-on labs to provide participants with practical experience in implementing and operating Cisco enterprise network core technologies. Some of the labs may include:

• Configuring VLANs and virtual routing and forwarding (VRF) instances.
• Implementing and troubleshooting routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP).
• Configuring high-availability technologies (HSRP, VRRP, GLBP).
• Implementing network monitoring and diagnostics using tools like SNMP and NetFlow.
• Configuring network security features such as AAA and VPNs.
• Implementing infrastructure automation using Ansible or other automation tools.
• Configuring network orchestration using Cisco DNA Center.