Building a scalable storage network requires deep understanding of Fibre Channel and SAN operations. This course equips participants to configure and operate Cisco MDS 9000 Series Switches for secure, high-performance storage networking. It includes automation, zoning, telemetry, and troubleshooting practices in modern SAN environments.
Learning Outcomes:
Configure and manage VSANs, zoning, NPV, and FCIP tunnels
Implement RBAC and secure Fibre Channel fabrics
Use NX-API and DCNM for automation and monitoring
Resolve domain, zone merge, and connectivity issues
Maintain and upgrade Cisco MDS systems with confidence
Key Topics:
Cisco MDS switch architecture and key platform features
SAN fabric configuration: VSANs, NPIV, zoning, FCIP
Fibre Channel security and fabric isolation
NX-API automation and telemetry streaming
DCNM management and system upgrade practices
Exam Details
This course is designed to build participants’ understanding of key concepts and domains covered in the Implementing Cisco Storage Area Networking (300-625 DCSAN) certification.
The exam validates the skills required to implement and troubleshoot Cisco MDS 9000 Series Switches in a highly available and scalable storage network environment. It contributes toward achieving both the Cisco Certified Specialist – Data Center SAN Implementation and the CCNP Data Center certifications.
Please note that the course fee does not include the certification exam and it must be purchased separately.
To maximise success, participants are strongly encouraged to complement the course with additional self-study, revision of course materials, and dedicated practice before attempting the exam.
Lesson 1: Describing Cisco MDS Platform
- Cisco MDS 9700/9300/9200/9100 Hardware
- Cisco NX-OS
- Cisco DCNM
- Fibre Channel Architecture
- FCoE Architecture
Lesson 2: Describing Key Product Features
- Cisco DCNM 11.x
- RBAC and Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting (AAA)
- Virtual SANs
- NPV and NPIV
- Port Channels and VSAN Trunking
- Zoning and Smart Zoning
- Device Aliases
- Inter-VSAN Routing
- Fibre Channel Fabric Security
Lesson 3: Describing New Product Features
- 32-Gb Fibre Channel
- Cisco MDS NX-API
- Power-On Auto-Provisioning
- Slow Drain Analysis
- SAN Analytics and Telemetry Streaming
- Cisco Secure Boot
Lesson 4: Deploying Cisco MDS Features
- Installation and Initial Setup
- Building a Fabric: FC Domains and FC Services
- Building SAN Extensions
Lesson 5: Troubleshooting Common Cisco MDS Issues
- Fibre Channel Domains
- Zones and Zone Merges
- Boot and Upgrade Issues
Lab Outline
- Set Up DCNM
- Explore DCNM-SAN Client and DCNM Device Manager
- Configure and Use RBAC
- Configure and Use RBAC with DCNM-SAN Client and Device Manager
- Manage VSANs and Fibre Channel Domain
- Configure NPV and N-Port Identification Virtualization (NPIV)
- Configure Interfaces
- Configure Device Aliases and Zoning
- Explore and Automate with NX-API
- Perform Slow Drain Analysis with Cisco DCNM
- Configure SAN Analysis and SAN Telemetry Streaming
- Configure FCIP Tunnels and FCIP High Availability
- Configure IVR for SAN Extension
- Troubleshoot Zoning and Zone Merges