Juniper Networks Certified Associate – Data Center (JN0-281) JNCIA-DC Online Training

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UPDATED: January 7, 2026

Intermediate

Start your data center networking career with the JNCIA-DC. This Juniper course builds on foundational networking knowledge and introduces you to the core technologies and architectures of modern data centers. You’ll explore how data centers operate, why they’re critical to IT infrastructure, and how the pieces (from EVPN-VXLAN fabrics to high availability protocols) fit together. Whether you’re an early-career network professional or simply expanding your networking horizons, this course sets you up for roles such as Data Center Engineer, Network Engineer or IT Infrastructure Specialist, and serves as the first step toward the JNCIA-DC certification exam.

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What you'll learn with JNCIA-DC training

Explain traditional multitier and modern spine/leaf data center network architectures
Understand Layer 2 and Layer 3 strategies including overlay vs underlay fabrics
Identify VLANs, Ethernet switching, and IRB in Junos environments
Describe and implement protocol-independent routing: static/aggregate routes, RIB groups, load balancing
Configure and troubleshoot OSPF and BGP in data center networks including IBGP/EBGP interactions
Understand high availability features like LAG, Graceful Restart, BFD and how they support resilient data center networking

JNCIA-DC training FAQs

What is the Juniper JNCIA-DC certification and what does it cover?

The Juniper Networks Certified Associate – Data Center (JNCIA-DC) certification validates your understanding of key data center technologies, including EVPN-VXLAN, Layer 2/3 architectures, and high availability protocols in Junos-based networks. It’s designed for entry-level IT and networking professionals who want to learn how modern data centers operate.

Is the JNCIA-DC a good certification for beginners?

Yes. The JNCIA-DC is one of the best beginner-friendly data center certifications for those with a basic networking background. It builds on foundational Junos knowledge and introduces you to data center design, routing, and architectures, making it an ideal first step before more advanced Juniper or multi-vendor certifications.

What jobs can I get with a JNCIA-DC certification?

Earning your JNCIA-DC certification can open doors to roles such as Data Center Engineer, Network Engineer, or Infrastructure Specialist. These roles focus on building, maintaining, and optimizing the network backbone that powers enterprise data centers, all skills that are in high demand worldwide.

How hard is the JNCIA-DC exam and how long should I study?

The JNCIA-DC exam (JN0-281) is considered moderate difficulty for entry-level learners. With consistent study and hands-on practice, most learners can prepare in 4–6 weeks. This CBT Nuggets course provides a clear, exam-aligned learning path to help you pass with confidence.

How much does a JNCIA-DC certified professional make?

According to recent salary data from Indeed, Glassdoor, and Salary.com, Data Center Engineers (the most common role after earning a JNCIA-DC certification) earn between $82,000 and $147,000 per year in the U.S. Entry-level professionals typically start around $80K, while experienced engineers with advanced Juniper or multi-vendor skills can earn over $150K annually. Your exact salary depends on experience, location, and the scale of the data center environment you support.

Who is JNCIA-DC training for?

This course is ideal for early-career network professionals or those with general networking backgrounds who want to understand how data centers fit into the broader IT ecosystem and move toward roles such as Data Center Engineer or Network Engineer.

What our learners say

Having access to on-demand labs that I could spin up instantly was very helpful. I didn’t have to have a home environment with a bunch of virtual machines spun up. Or worry about destroying things.
Brian V. | Monitoring Engineer
CBT Nuggets fits into my day-to-day amazingly.
John M. | IT Manager
CBT Nuggets is exactly what I needed.
Thomas S. | Systems Engineer & Consultant

Study guide

Download the free JNCIA-DC study guide to complete this course in about 7 hours.

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Topics related to JNCIA-DC training

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