VMware recently released vSphere 6 and has updated its certification program. Click here to learn more about vSphere 6 as well as how it differs from VMware vSphere 5.
This post will take a closer look into the new VMware 6 certification roadmap. Here it is:
What’s the difference in the new vSphere 6 certification path? It’s the fact VMware has replaced the VMware Certified Advanced Profession level (VCAP), with the VMware Certified Implementation Expert level (VCIX). The VCIX level was introduced with the NSX, and with the vSphere 6 VCAP, it would be replaced by VCIX.
VMware also introduces its first beta exam, the vSphere 6 Foundations Beta Examination. This exam will be associated to VCP credentials including VCP6–DCV, VCP6–CMA, VCP6–DTM, and VCP6–NV. These certifications require one additional exam (new exams specifically tailored for vSphere6). However, the beta version Foundations exam is attracting more attention.
VCP- Level Certifications
Let’s take a closer glance at the VMware Certified Professional (VCP). All of them will now need to pass 2 exams.
“Foundation” exam (2V0-620) that is online and covers the basics of vSphere/virtualization. The exam contains 100 questions. There are multiple choices, single-choice, proctored, etc. The exam fee for vSphere 6 Foundation was $50.
The Foundation will also grant VCP-level certification through an “Elective” exam.
The Foundation exam validates basic knowledge and understanding of vSphere 6 and covers basic vSphere requirements.
The second, or ‘elective’ exam is different depending on the credential and the specialization.
VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV)
The VMware VCP6-DCV credential validates the skills and abilities of candidates in configuring, managing, and scaling a vSphere virtualized information center. VCP6-DCV certified holders will be able to deploy, consolidate and administer virtualization technologies, including vSphere HA, DRS Clusters, storage virtualization with VMFS, Storage IOS Control, and network virtualization using vSphere standard, distributed switches, and Network I/O control, vSphere management using vCenter Server, vRealize Opera Manager Standard, and virtual machines.
VMware Certified Professional 6 Cloud Management and Automation (VCP6CMA)
Candidates who are looking to validate their skills in configuring vRealize Automation into a vSphere virtualized database center using vRealize Automation, and related technologies to deploy, manage, and monitor services across a multi-vendor, multiple-cloud infrastructure, can apply for VCP6-CMA certification.
VMware Certified Professional 6 Desktop and Mobility (VCP6–DTM)
VCP6-DTM tests and validates candidates’ ability to configure Horizon with View in a vSphere virtualized database center and to use View and other technologies to deploy and manage virtual desktops through a single platform.
VMware Certified Professional 6 – Network Virtualization (VCP6-NV)
VCP6-NV tests and covers all aspects of knowledge candidates need to configure, install, and manage a vSphere virtual data center with VMware NSX. It demonstrates creation and administration a virtual network including Layer 2 switch and both static and dynamic Layer 3 routing. Edge services such as DHCP and DNS are also demonstrated.
Even though the certification program was just launched this spring, serious candidates should begin preparation for the VMware VCP6 exam. VMware recommends that candidates have at minimum 6 months of experience with vSphere 6. While this is not required and you can take the required courses and exams at any time, it does indicate that candidates must have at least 6 months of experience with vSphere 6. If you are unsure about the differences between vSphere 5 and vSphere 6, check out this article.