This article introduced CCNP ENCOR 305-401 Automation part, including basic Python components, constructing valid JSON files, and YANG data modeling for network automation. It explains Cisco DNA Center and vManage APIs, REST API response codes, and the use of EEM applets for automating network tasks. The article also compares agent-based and agentless orchestration tools like Chef, Puppet, Ansible, and SaltStack, outlining their deployment and functionality differences.

This article covers CCNP ENCOR 350-401 security part, including access control, AAA (Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting), ACLs (Access Control Lists), and wireless security features like 802.1X and WebAuth. It also explores advanced security protocols such as Control Plane Policing (CoPP), REST API security, and endpoint protection strategies, alongside modern firewall technologies like Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW), Cisco TrustSec, and MACsec.

This article provides an overview of essential tools and techniques for network assurance, including using debugging commands, configuring Flexible NetFlow, and setting up SPAN, RSPAN, and ERSPAN for traffic monitoring. It also covers IP SLA configuration for monitoring network performance and describes how to use Cisco DNA Center for network automation and management. Lastly, it introduces NETCONF and RESTCONF protocols for network device configuration using modern methods like YANG models and HTTP-based management.

The CCNP ENCOR 350-401 exam covers a broad range of networking topics, including Layer 2 and Layer 3 technologies, wireless networking, and IP services. Key areas include troubleshooting trunking protocols and EtherChannels, configuring and verifying common STP, and understanding the routing concepts of EIGRP, OSPF, and BGP, as well as wireless networking principles. Additionally, the exam encompasses configuring and verifying NTP/PTP, NAT/PAT, HSRP/VRRP, and troubleshooting multicast protocols.

This article covers CCNP virtualization, including Hypervisors, virtual machines, virtual switching, VRF, GRE, IPsec tunneling, and network virtualization concepts. It explains how Hypervisors are categorized, the roles of virtual machines and switches, and the use of VRF for network isolation. It also highlights GRE and IPsec for secure data transfer, LISP for optimized routing, and VXLAN for large-scale network expansion.

This article provides an overview of various enterprise network design principles and architectures. It discusses high availability techniques and explores different wireless network deployment models and the principles of Cisco’s SD-WAN and SD-Access solutions. Additionally, it delves into QoS configurations and hardware and software switching mechanisms.

The CCNP certification involves a mandatory core exam, the 350-401 ENCOR, which covers implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies. Candidates also need to choose one elective from several options, focusing on specific areas like advanced routing, SD-WAN solutions, network design, security and wireless.

This article provides a comprehensive introduction to IPSec. It covers the basics of IPSec, including its structure, operating modes (Transport and Tunnel Modes), and the various encryption and authentication algorithms it utilizes. Additionally, the article delves into the practical aspects of setting up and managing IPSec connections.