Best Labs and Practice Exams for CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure v1.1

Preparing for the CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure v1.1 exam is a rigorous journey that requires a deep understanding of advanced networking concepts and hands-on expertise. With the updated exam version focusing heavily on software-defined networking, automation, and hybrid infrastructure, effective lab practice and simulation-based learning have become more essential than ever. To help you optimize your preparation, we’ve compiled a list of the best labs and practice exams that candidates are using to pass ccie enterprise infrastructure v1.1 lab successfully.

1. Cisco Expert-Level Training

Cisco’s own expert-level training courses are tailored to match the exact exam blueprint. These include self-paced materials, virtual labs, and practice scenarios directly aligned with the CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure objectives.

• Why it’s recommended:
  • Directly mapped to the official exam blueprint.
  • Provides access to real Cisco devices and platforms.
  • Includes automation and programmability modules with DNA Center and SD-WAN.

Many candidates find these labs to be an excellent foundation before diving into third-party platforms.

2. INE CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure Workbooks and Labs

INE has long been one of the go-to providers for CCIE lab training. Their CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure course includes structured video lessons, hands-on labs, and technology-focused deep dives.

• Highlights:
  • Over 150 hours of lab content.
  • Scenario-based labs replicating exam complexity.
  • Strong coverage of automation using Python, REST APIs, and Ansible.
  • Includes detailed walk-throughs and solutions.

Candidates praise INE for simplifying complex topics and providing a logical progression of practice scenarios.

3. EVE-NG and Cisco VIRL/CML Labs

For those who prefer to build and manage their own lab environments, EVE-NG and Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) are powerful platforms.

• EVE-NG:
  • Supports a wide range of Cisco images (IOS-XE, IOS XR, NX-OS, SD-WAN, etc.).
  • Excellent for custom topologies and automation testing.
  • Great community support and prebuilt topologies are available online.
• Cisco Modeling Labs (CML):
  • Cisco’s official emulator.
  • Includes pre-licensed Cisco images.
  • Reliable for testing official scenarios and features.

These platforms offer full flexibility and control, allowing you to recreate real exam conditions. They’re especially useful for advanced configuration tasks and automation scripting.

4. NetDevOps and Automation Practice Labs

Since CCIE EI v1.1 places heavy emphasis on network automation, dedicating lab time to programmability tools is essential. Look for labs that cover:

• Python scripting with Netmiko, NAPALM, or Paramiko.
• Interacting with Cisco’s DNA Center and vManage APIs.
• Model-driven telemetry using NETCONF, RESTCONF, and YANG.

Some notable practice resources include:

• DevNet Sandboxes (by Cisco): Free, cloud-based labs for testing Cisco APIs and tools.
• GitHub repositories from CCIE candidates and engineers sharing automation labs.

5. Narbik Kocharians’ Bootcamp (Micronics Training)

Narbik Kocharians is a renowned CCIE trainer whose bootcamps and labs have helped many candidates succeed. His workbooks and mock labs are extremely close to the real exam in terms of complexity and challenge.

• Why candidates like it:
  • Emphasis on speed, efficiency, and troubleshooting.
  • Realistic practice labs that test both design and configuration.
  • Live bootcamps and remote access labs are available.

Although more intense, many passers credit Narbik’s labs as being a crucial component of their success.

6. Practice Exams and Mock Labs

Towards the final stages of preparation, simulating the actual lab exam environment is critical. Use full-scale mock labs under strict time limits to improve your endurance and time management.Recommended sources:

• INE Full-Scale Mock Labs
• Cisco Learning Network Mock Exam Scenarios
• Boson Exam Simulators (for core written prep)

Practicing in a simulated, high-pressure setting helps develop your exam strategy, improves decision-making, and reveals areas that still need refinement.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right lab and practice exam resources is as crucial as studying the right topics. There’s no single “best” platform — rather, the ideal preparation involves a mix of structured training (like Cisco or INE), custom lab environments (EVE-NG or CML), and focused automation practice.If you're serious about passing CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure v1.1, invest in quality lab practice, simulate real exam conditions often, and don’t overlook programmability. Consistent, smart lab work is the bridge between theory and CCIE success.