After this training you understand how a Cisco data centre is built and can carry out basic configuration of Nexus switches with NX-OS. You set up port channels and vPCs, place Fibre Channel, NPV, NPIV and FCoE within the storage network and work with Cisco UCS and UCS Manager. By the end you also know what part APIs, Cisco ACI and cloud models play. The course suits administrators, server and network staff moving into data centre operations or preparing for further material such as DCCOR.
What you’ll take away.
- Compare data centre network architectures and handle the basics of Cisco Nexus switches with NX-OS
- Understand and set up first-hop redundancy, FEX, port channels and vPCs
- Understand storage networking with Fibre Channel, zoning, NPV, NPIV and FCoE
- Identify Cisco UCS components and work with UCS Manager
- Assess the role of APIs, Cisco ACI and cloud models in the data centre
Your training in detail
- Who is it for?
- Data centre administrators and engineers, systems engineers, server administrators and network managers who are getting to grips with Cisco data centre technology.
- Prerequisites
- There are no formal prerequisites. A good understanding of networking protocols, experience with VMware environments and basic knowledge of Microsoft Windows are recommended.
- Format & planning
- Standard length: 5 training days. A different length can be arranged for companies.
Agenda: from understanding to application
Our independently developed agenda proposal. Focus areas, lab environment and scope are agreed before booking.
Data centre network architectures, the Cisco Nexus family and NX-OS
Layer 3 first-hop redundancy, Cisco FEX, port channels and vPCs
Switch, machine and network virtualisation
Data centre storage: Fibre Channel communication, zoning, NPV and NPIV
Ethernet enhancements for lossless transport and FCoE
Cisco UCS: components and management with UCS Manager
APIs, Cisco ACI and cloud computing basics
In the labs you work with the NX-OS CLI, configure HSRP, FEX and vPCs, set up VSANs and Fibre Channel zoning, implement FCoE and create a service profile in Cisco UCS.
Exams, licences & credentials
DCFNDU does not lead directly to an exam. It covers foundations for further Cisco training and exams, for example in the CCNP Data Center track with 350-601 DCCOR. Exams and fees are included only if the offer explicitly confirms it; certifications are awarded solely by Cisco. This is not an official Cisco course unless the offer explicitly says so.
Vendor references & review date
Sources checked on 2026-11-10. These sources describe the technology or external exam requirements. They do not imply a partnership with NextNowa.
Your learning content
These objectives describe the training topic. The specific syllabus, dates and trainer are agreed before booking; the written offer is binding.
Frequently asked questions
Is DCFNDU exam preparation?
Not directly. DCFNDU teaches the foundations that courses and exams such as 350-601 DCCOR build on.
How does DCFNDU differ from DCCOR?
DCFNDU introduces Nexus, storage networking, UCS and ACI. DCCOR goes much deeper, for example into VXLAN and ACI, and prepares you specifically for the 350-601 exam.
Does Understanding Cisco Data Center Foundations (DCFNDU): data centre networking basics include a certificate?
DCFNDU does not lead directly to an exam. It covers foundations for further Cisco training and exams, for example in the CCNP Data Center track with 350-601 DCCOR. Exams and fees are included only if the offer explicitly confirms it; certifications are awarded solely by Cisco. This is not an official Cisco course unless the offer explicitly says so.