100 Days to CCIE SEC v6.1 Lab

January 3, 2026 / Balaji Bandi / 0 Comments

I have started Last year, 2025, due to some reason, and project deliveries and other health-related issues were not focused much – https://www.balajibandi.com/?p=2631

This year, I have committed myself to attempting the Lab.

Preparing for the CCIE Security v6.1 Lab in 100 days requires a rigorous, technology-focused approach. In 2026, the blueprint remains centered on the v6.1 minor revision, which emphasizes Cisco Umbrella cloud security and updated access control with IBNS 2.0.

Critical CCIE Security v6.1 Highlights

  • Identity Management (25%): This is the highest-weighted domain. You must master IBNS 2.0 (C3PL), which replaces legacy authentication commands. Proficiency in EAP-TEAP (EAP Chaining) within ISE is essential.
  • Cloud Security: The v6.1 update introduced a heavy focus on Cisco Umbrella. Expect tasks involving DNS-layer security, Remote Browser Isolation (RBI), and Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB) policies.
  • Automation: Basic programmability using JSON, XML, and YAML is no longer optional. You must be able to use Python or APIs to interact with Cisco DNA Center and FMC.
  • Perimeter Security: Focus on Dynamic Objects in FTD and ASA clustering/HA. You should be able to configure complex VPN designs (like FlexVPN) in roughly 15 minutes to stay on pace.

Lab Strategy & Tips

  1. Use the Tracker to monitor each task’s confidence level. Aim for >70% confidence before attempting the actual lab with the following topics :
  2. Verify Twice: Points are only awarded if the solution is fully functional. Verify every configuration at least twice using the provided diagnostic tools (Wireshark, tcpdump, or show commands).
  3. Read the Entire Lab First: Spend the first 20–30 minutes reading all requirements. Some tasks have dependencies on later sections; performing them out of order can lead to configuration conflicts.
  4. Time Management: I have learned that most candidates fail due to poor time management rather than a lack of knowledge. Practice individual modules under strict time constraints to build speed. 

Lets start the race and will post each day or possible weekly based Labs here ….keep watching this space.

If you are on the same aim, contact me at the Cisco community forum for peer learning and sharing knowledge.

Happy Labbing …!