If you’re pursuing a career in IT networking or already working as a networking professional, staying up to date with certification changes is crucial. In December 2022, Cisco officially announced a series of important updates for its CCNP certification tracks in 2023. These updates include not only revisions to core and concentration exams across major tracks like Enterprise, Collaboration, and Data Center, but also the introduction of a brand-new exam: the 300-440 ENCC (Designing and Implementing Cloud Connectivity).
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the 2023 CCNP certification updates—from new exams and test release schedules to how these changes impact your preparation strategy and career goals. We’ll also explore how Cisco Practice Tests, updated Cisco Exam blueprints, and understanding the role of Cisco Dumps can influence your certification journey.
Introduction to the CCNP Certification Path
The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification is a highly respected credential for mid-level IT professionals who specialize in enterprise networking, collaboration, and data center operations. The CCNP certification verifies the candidate’s ability to plan, implement, verify, and troubleshoot local and wide-area enterprise networks.
To earn a CCNP certification, candidates must pass two exams:
1. A core exam, which tests foundational knowledge of the domain.
2. A concentration exam, which allows specialization in a more specific technology area.
Let’s explore how these core and concentration exams have changed in 2023.
Introduction of the New 300-440 ENCC Cisco Exam
Perhaps the most noteworthy announcement in 2023 is the introduction of a completely new CCNP Enterprise concentration exam – 300-440 ENCC: Designing and Implementing Cloud Connectivity. This newly launched exam reflects the growing demand for professionals who can successfully design and manage modern cloud-based network solutions.
What Does ENCC Cover?
This exam is designed for network engineers and architects responsible for building hybrid cloud environments. The rise of hybrid IT infrastructure means organizations require engineers who understand cloud-native networking, VPNs, and SD-WAN technologies. As businesses move toward digital transformation, the line between on-premise infrastructure and cloud-based services continues to blur. This shift requires a new generation of IT specialists with an advanced understanding of hybrid networking concepts.
The 300-440 ENCC Cisco Certification exam will cover:
- VPN technologies for secure communication across multiple networks.
- SD-WAN for scalable and flexible wide area networks.
- Cloud-native networking practices and tools for public, private, and hybrid cloud.
In addition to technical knowledge, candidates are expected to demonstrate practical skills in deploying, managing, and troubleshooting cloud connectivity solutions. That’s why preparing with a Cisco Practice Test tailored for the ENCC exam is highly recommended. These tests simulate real-world scenarios and can help reinforce key exam concepts.
Cisco officially scheduled the release of the ENCC exam for September 20, 2023. This signals Cisco’s continued focus on cloud integration, a trend that is quickly reshaping modern IT infrastructure. For those studying for the ENCC, it is crucial to access up-to-date training material, including official Cisco learning paths, labs, and Cisco Practice Tests. While some may be tempted by Cisco Dumps circulating online, it’s important to note that using unauthorized materials violates Cisco’s exam policies and can jeopardize your certification status. Instead, opt for legitimate study resources and practice exams from trusted providers to ensure you’re prepared both ethically and effectively.
The introduction of the ENCC represents more than just a new exam—it’s a reflection of how networking is evolving. If you’re planning to earn your Cisco Certification in 2023 or beyond, mastering cloud connectivity should be a top priority. This exam offers an excellent opportunity to enhance your professional value and showcase your readiness for the cloud-first future.
Why Cloud Connectivity Matters in 2023 and Beyond
Hybrid and multi-cloud environments are the new normal. According to industry data, over 90% of organizations now rely on hybrid cloud models. This makes the ENCC certification particularly relevant for network engineers looking to future-proof their careers.This shift is driven by the need for greater flexibility, scalability, and resilience—especially in a world where remote work, global collaboration, and digital transformation are standard business practices. As a result, the demand for IT professionals who can design, implement, and manage seamless cloud connectivity is skyrocketing.This trend makes the Cisco 300-440 ENCC Certification particularly timely and relevant. The skills validated by this exam, such as configuring VPNs, deploying SD-WAN, and architecting hybrid cloud solutions, are now critical competencies for any modern network engineer or architect. With cloud adoption showing no signs of slowing down, getting certified in cloud connectivity can give professionals a competitive edge and long-term job security.
Knox Hutchinson, a veteran Cisco trainer at CBT Nuggets, summed it up best: “Hybrid connectivity is so hot right now.” The introduction of ENCC not only addresses current industry trends but also empowers professionals to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Furthermore, many organizations are seeking engineers who already possess recognized credentials such as Cisco Certification to validate their readiness to lead cloud migration projects. Whether you’re preparing for the ENCC Cisco Exam through online training platforms, labs, or Cisco Practice Tests, focusing on this area can significantly enhance your career trajectory.
While some might seek shortcuts through unauthorized Cisco Dumps, the best strategy is to focus on ethical and comprehensive preparation. Using reliable Cisco learning resources ensures you build real-world expertise—not just test-taking tricks—which is essential in a cloud-connected future where downtime, misconfigurations, or security gaps can cost businesses millions.
Simply put, cloud connectivity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the backbone of modern enterprise IT. By investing in the ENCC and staying aligned with Cisco’s forward-thinking certification strategy, networking professionals can prepare themselves for where the industry is going, not where it’s been.
2023 CCNP Exam Update Schedules by Track
Cisco’s ongoing effort to modernize its certification programs has brought a wave of updates across the CCNP certification tracks in 2023. These updates ensure that Cisco Certification exams remain aligned with the latest technologies and practices across networking domains. Let’s explore the changes in more detail across the Enterprise and Collaboration tracks.
1. CCNP Enterprise Updates
The CCNP Enterprise certification has undergone several exam updates in 2023. These changes affect both the core exam (ENCOR) and multiple concentration exams. The CCNP Enterprise certification, one of the most in-demand Cisco Certification paths, has received a full suite of updates. This includes not only enhancements to the core exam (350-401 ENCOR) but also revisions to all concentration exams and the addition of two new ones.
These updates reflect Cisco’s response to evolving enterprise network needs, such as increased demand for cloud connectivity, automation, SD-WAN solutions, and wireless architecture. The inclusion of the new 300-440 ENCC exam and the upcoming 300-445 ENNA exam is a clear sign that Cisco aims to expand its focus beyond traditional network design to also include intelligent network monitoring and cloud-native solutions. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Updated CCNP Enterprise Exams and Release Dates:
Study Strategy Tip: To prepare for these exams, professionals should use updated Cisco Practice Tests and official training materials. With many candidates seeking shortcuts, it’s important to steer clear of Cisco Dumps that offer unauthorized copies of real exams. These not only violate Cisco’s certification policies but also fail to equip learners with genuine, practical knowledge.
2. CCNP Collaboration Updates
For the CCNP Collaboration track, Cisco released its updates earlier in the year. The CCNP Collaboration track is designed for professionals working in unified communications and collaboration technologies. The updates released in April 2023 help align the certification more closely with real-world voice, video, messaging, and conferencing technologies used in hybrid work environments.
Whether you’re designing VoIP solutions or implementing Cisco cloud and edge collaboration tools, these refreshed exams reflect Cisco’s push toward integrated communication and automation. With hybrid work models here to stay, demand is growing for certified engineers who can secure and streamline voice and video communications. These updates enhance the certification’s alignment with evolving collaboration technologies.
Updated CCNP Collaboration Exams and Release Dates:
CCNP Collaboration Retired Exam:
- 300-825 CLCNF (Conferencing): Retired on April 19, 2023
Key Insight: Candidates preparing for these updated exams should be aware that the changes, while not massive, do include important revisions to features like call control, conferencing, cloud integrations, and automation. Utilizing updated Cisco training courses and Cisco practice tests ensures you’re aligned with the new content. Again, it’s essential to avoid Cisco Dumps to maintain integrity and ensure the certification remains valid and respected in the industry.
3. CCNP Data Center Updates
The CCNP Data Center exams also received version upgrades, reflecting Cisco’s investment in modernizing data center infrastructure technologies. The CCNP Data Center certification track also received a comprehensive round of updates in 2023, aimed at aligning with the latest innovations in data center infrastructure. As organizations increasingly move toward software-defined data centers, automation, and cloud-native architectures, Cisco has modernized its certification blueprints to reflect the realities of today’s IT environments.
The new versions of the core and concentration exams are designed to validate a professional’s ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot next-gen data center solutions. From hyperconverged infrastructure and Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) to automation and network programmability, the updated CCNP Data Center track ensures that certified individuals are prepared to tackle the modern challenges of data center networking and operations.
Updated CCNP Data Center Exams and Release Dates:
These updates focus not only on enhancing the depth of technical knowledge but also on enabling professionals to work with Cisco’s evolving ecosystem, such as Cisco Nexus switches, UCS (Unified Computing System), and ACI (Application Centric Infrastructure).
For those pursuing Cisco Certification in the data center domain, it’s critical to use up-to-date learning resources and tools. Leveraging the latest Cisco Practice Tests helps candidates simulate the real exam experience and understand the practical applications of theoretical concepts. It’s important to note that relying on outdated or unauthorized Cisco Dumps may do more harm than good, as they often contain inaccurate or obsolete information—and using them violates Cisco’s exam policies.
With technologies like ACI and automation now central to enterprise data center strategies, preparing for the CCNP Data Center certification using authentic Cisco-approved materials ensures not only exam readiness but also hands-on capability. This track is particularly valuable for professionals aspiring to roles such as Data Center Network Engineers, System Architects, or those progressing toward the prestigious CCIE Data Center certification.
In short, the 2023 updates to the CCNP Data Center exams reflect Cisco’s commitment to helping IT professionals remain current and competitive in an increasingly software-driven data center environment. Whether you’re upgrading your skills or stepping into a new data center role, this certification path offers a powerful opportunity for career growth.
CCNP Data Center Retired Exam:
As part of the 2023 updates to the CCNP Data Center certification path, Cisco announced the retirement of one of its longstanding concentration exams: 300-625 DCSAN: Implementing Cisco Storage Area
- 300-625 DCSAN: Retired on April 19, 2023
The DCSAN exam focused on the implementation and operation of storage networking solutions using Cisco’s MDS family of switches. It tested candidates on skills related to Fibre Channel protocol, SAN architecture, device configuration, zoning, NPIV, and fabric security. However, with the evolving landscape of data centers, shifting away from traditional SANs toward more software-defined storage, hyperconvergence, and cloud-integrated solutions, Cisco determined it was time to sunset this exam.
The retirement of 300-625 DCSAN reflects Cisco’s commitment to keeping its certification portfolio aligned with real-world trends. While SAN technologies are still in use, they are no longer considered cutting-edge or growth areas in most enterprise environments. Cisco has instead refocused the CCNP Data Center track on areas like Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI), automation, and cloud integration—skills that are increasingly in demand.
Candidates who were studying for DCSAN prior to its retirement were encouraged to take the exam before the deadline or pivot to another concentration exam still available under the updated track. For those looking to validate their storage knowledge now, exploring other Cisco technologies or supplementing learning with practical experience and Cisco Practice Tests for currently active exams is a more future-proof route.
While some learners may have looked for Cisco Dumps to quickly pass the DCSAN before it was phased out, it’s always more beneficial and ethical to use Cisco-approved training resources. This ensures a true understanding of the technology and upholds the credibility of your Cisco Certification.
Minor Changes but Major Implications
Cisco has clarified that most of these exam revisions are relatively minor. That means:
- Domains and blueprint structures remain the same.
- Certain outdated technologies are being removed.
- New technologies are being added to reflect evolving network demands.
For example, in the 300-410 ENARSI exam:
- All four domains: Layer 3, VPN, Infrastructure Security, and Infrastructure Services – remain unchanged.
- EIGRP now includes VRF and global routing modes.
- BGP has added VRF-Lite and unicast routing.
These incremental changes still require candidates to update their study materials and practice using relevant Cisco Practice Tests.
Why Cisco Certification Still Matters
Cisco Certifications are among the most respected credentials in the IT industry. Employers often use Cisco Certification as a benchmark to validate candidates’ technical skills, commitment to learning, and readiness for real-world responsibilities.
Key Benefits of Cisco Certification:
Higher Salary Opportunities: Certified professionals typically earn more than their non-certified counterparts.
Career Advancement: Cisco exams help you move from associate-level (CCNA) to professional (CCNP) and eventually expert-level (CCIE).
Credibility and Recognition: Being Cisco Certified increases your marketability in a competitive IT landscape.
Study Strategy: Should You Take the Current or Updated Cisco Exams?
Here’s a quick guide for deciding whether to sit for current exams or wait for the updates:
Take the Current Exam If:
· You’ve already been studying for weeks or months.
· The exam is retiring soon (e.g., 300-825 or 300-625).
· You’re confident in the exam blueprint and ready to test.
Wait for the New Exam If:
· You’re just beginning your study journey.
· You want to align with the latest industry technologies.
· You’re interested in the new ENCC cloud connectivity focus.
Regardless of your choice, using a Cisco Practice Test tailored to the specific exam version is crucial for building exam readiness.
Avoiding Cisco Dumps and Choosing the Right Study Material
A word of caution: while “Cisco Dumps” are a popular keyword in search queries, relying on unauthorized exam dumps can violate Cisco’s exam policies and devalue your certification.
Instead, choose ethical and effective resources such as:
- Cisco’s official learning network
- CBT Nuggets and other trusted training providers
- Cisco Practice Tests from reputable platforms
- Official Cisco Press books
Practice tests simulate the real Cisco exam environment and help identify knowledge gaps.
Preparing for the Future: Next Steps After CCNP
After earning your CCNP certification, many professionals look toward the CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) path. CCIE is considered the pinnacle of Cisco Certification and requires:
- Passing the CCNP core exam.
- Passing an advanced lab practical exam for your chosen specialization.
2023 updates to CCNP exams directly impact your CCIE journey since the same core exams are used.
Conclusion
With the 2023 updates, Cisco continues to evolve its certification program to keep pace with technological advancements, particularly in hybrid cloud and automation. The new 300-440 ENCC exam highlights Cisco’s commitment to addressing industry demands for skilled cloud connectivity professionals.
Whether you’re preparing for CCNP Enterprise, Collaboration, or Data Center, now is the time to take stock of the new exam blueprints and adapt your preparation accordingly. Use trusted Cisco Practice Tests, avoid unreliable Cisco Dumps, and leverage reputable Cisco Certification training providers to position yourself for success.
By earning a CCNP certification, you’re not only gaining a prestigious credential but also setting yourself up for long-term career growth in the networking field. Stay sharp, stay current, and keep learning because the future of IT infrastructure is already here. A CCNP certification does more than validate technical skills, it demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and your ability to adapt to an ever-changing IT environment. It opens doors to advanced job roles, higher salaries, and new opportunities, including the elite CCIE certification if you choose to take your career even further.
The IT industry is moving fast, and businesses are looking for skilled professionals who can keep their networks running smoothly while embracing emerging technologies. By staying current with Cisco’s certification roadmap, you’re not just keeping up, you’re staying ahead.
So, whether you’re a network engineer, system architect, or aspiring IT professional, the time to act is now. Stay sharp, stay current, and keep learning because the future of IT infrastructure isn’t just coming. It’s already here. Make sure you’re ready for it.
