Preparation Guide for Exam 642-998: Designing Cisco Data Center Unified Computing
Cisco exams are known for being challenging and rigorous, and the 642-998 exam is no exception. This exam, also known as the Designing Cisco Data Center Unified Computing (DCUCD) exam, is designed to assess the knowledge and skills of individuals in designing unified computing solutions using Cisco technologies. Passing this exam is a crucial step towards achieving the Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) certification, a highly respected credential in the networking industry.
Exam Overview
The 642-998 exam consists of 90-110 multiple choice and simulation questions and has a duration of 90 minutes. The passing score for this exam is 850 out of 1000. The exam tests a wide range of topics, including Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS) hardware and software, virtualization technologies, storage and network connectivity, and management and maintenance of UCS environments.
Preparation Tips
Preparing for the 642-998 exam requires a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. Here are some tips to help you in your preparation:
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Exam Objectives
The first step towards preparing for any Cisco exam is to carefully review the exam objectives. These objectives can be found on the Cisco website and will give you a clear understanding of what topics will be covered in the exam. Make sure to thoroughly study each objective and have a solid understanding of the concepts and technologies involved.
2. Take a Cisco Authorized Training Course
Cisco offers a range of training courses for the 642-998 exam, both in-person and online. These courses are designed to cover all the exam objectives and provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to pass the exam. Additionally, attending a training course will give you access to learning materials and practice exams, which can be valuable resources in your preparation process.
3. Utilize Cisco Learning Network Resources
The Cisco Learning Network is an online community for Cisco certification candidates where you can find study groups, discussion forums, and other resources for exam preparation. Cisco also offers various learning resources on their website, such as self-paced training modules and practice exams. These resources can be helpful in reinforcing your knowledge and identifying any knowledge gaps that need to be addressed.
4. Practice with Hands-on Labs
The 642-998 exam includes simulation questions that require you to have hands-on experience with Cisco UCS technologies. It is crucial to have practical experience working with unified computing environments in order to pass the exam. Cisco offers virtual labs that allow you to gain hands-on experience without the need for physical hardware. You can also set up your own lab using Cisco UCS equipment or use virtualization software to simulate the environment.
5. Join Study Groups and Discussions
Joining a study group or participating in discussion forums can be an effective way to enhance your understanding of the exam topics and learn from others’ experiences. You can also share study materials and practice questions with your peers to strengthen your knowledge.
6. Time Management is Key
Given the limited time for the exam, it is crucial to manage your time effectively. Make sure to allocate enough time for each section of the exam and do not spend too much time on a particular question. If you are unsure of an answer, mark it and move on to the next question. You can always come back to it later if you have time.
7. Take Practice Exams
Taking practice exams is an excellent way to assess your knowledge and identify areas that need more attention. Cisco offers official practice exams that simulate the real exam environment and can help you gauge your level of preparedness for the actual exam. Keep in mind that passing these practice exams does not guarantee a passing score on the actual exam, but they can be a great tool for self-assessment.
Conclusion
Passing the 642-998 exam requires a combination of knowledge, hands-on experience, and effective preparation strategies. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success and obtain the CCDE certification, demonstrating your expertise in designing Cisco data center unified computing solutions.