Cisco · 2026 Edition
A complete preparation guide written by Cisco-certified engineers. Covers the exam format,all 39 blueprint domains, a week-by-week study plan, and proven tips for passing first time.
4–6 months
Prep time
Advanced
Difficulty
90
Exam questions
Variable
Pass mark
Exam code
350-401
Full name
Cisco ENCOR 350-401
Vendor
Cisco
Duration
120 minutes
Questions
90 items
Passing score
Variable
Domains covered
39 blueprint domains
Recommended experience
3+ years of enterprise networking experience or CCNA-level knowledge
Typical prep time
4–6 months
CCNP Enterprise is the senior networking credential demanded by enterprise employers globally. It opens doors to network architect and senior engineer roles.
Job roles this opens
Official Cisco blueprint weights — study time should roughly match these percentages.
Passing score: Cisco passing scores vary by exam version and are not always publicly listed. Check the official Cisco exam page before booking.
Month 1–2
ENCOR Core: Architecture, Virtualisation, Infrastructure
Tip: Important: CCNP requires passing TWO separate exams — the 350-401 ENCOR core plus one concentration exam. Plan your timeline and budget accordingly before you start.
Month 3
ENCOR Core: Network Assurance, Security, Automation
Tip: Python basics, REST APIs, and Cisco DNA Centre are now exam-tested — don't skip automation.
Month 4
Concentration Exam: ENARSI (advanced routing) or your chosen track
Tip: ENARSI covers OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, redistribution, policy routing, and VPNs in depth. This is a separate exam sitting from the ENCOR core.
Month 5–6
Advanced practice, lab simulation, and mock exams
Tip: Run timed mock sessions for both exams separately. Exam day for each is a distinct booking with Pearson VUE.
CCNP Enterprise requires passing 350-401 ENCOR plus one concentration exam (e.g. 300-410 ENARSI).
OSPF and BGP are the most heavily weighted routing protocols across both exams — go deep.
SD-WAN, SD-Access, and DNA Centre appear in the automation sections — treat them as new exam domains.
Lab simulation with Cisco Packet Tracer, GNS3, or CML is essential — written knowledge alone is not enough.
Holding CCNA before CCNP is not required but significantly reduces prep time.
Apply everything in this guide with adaptive practice questions, detailed answer explanations, and domain analytics.