The SD-WAN job market is exploding. A recent report by Verified Market Reports projects that the global SD-WAN market will be worth $42.6 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 38.9%.
For IT professionals, that’s not just a technology shift. It’s a career-defining opportunity. Whether you’re a network engineer, sysadmin, or cybersecurity pro, SD-WAN skills are fast becoming essential to stay relevant, land better jobs, and move up in the cloud-first world.
But with dozens of SD-WAN training programs and certifications out there; it’s tough to know where to start.
That’s where this guide comes in. We have handpicked the nine best SD-WAN training and certification programs to help you choose the one that fits your skill level, career goals, and preferred learning style.
Are you ready? Let’s look at the first course.
#1. Prisma SD-WAN: Design and Operation (EDU-238)
This five-day instructor-led course is designed for security-focused professionals who want to master Palo Alto’s Prisma SD-WAN. It blends real-world design concepts with hands-on labs, covering everything from secure branch deployments to full-scale SASE integration using Prisma Access.
Source – Palo Alto
What you will learn?
In this course, you will get hands-on with:
#1. Designing scalable, secure SD-WAN networks using Prisma architecture.
#2. Configuring routing, QoS, and policy-based path selection across MPLS and broadband links.
#3. Implementing advanced security features like NAT and Zero Trust Branch Firewall.
#4. Using CloudBlades, DNS/DHCP services, and operational monitoring tools.
#5. Integrating Prisma SD-WAN with Prisma Access to build a complete SASE framework.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is best suited for IT professionals already working with or planning to deploy Palo Alto Networks gear. If you’re a network engineer, NOC admin, or architect looking to level up in secure SD-WAN environments, this course hits the mark.
Certification Path
Completing this course prepares you for the Prisma SD-WAN Consultant (PMSC) micro-credential from Palo Alto Networks.
Offered by Datacipher: As an Authorized Training Partner for Palo Alto, Datacipher delivers this course via certified instructors with flexible formats. You can learn more about the course offering here.
Datacipher Recommends
Start here if: Your team already works with Palo Alto firewalls and is moving toward Prisma Access or a full SASE rollout.
Avoid if: You’re unfamiliar with basic routing, Palo Alto’s CLI, or Zero Trust concepts. This course dives deep, fast.
Instructor Insight: Most learners get stuck on policy-based forwarding and CloudBlades integration. We slow down here with guided labs and live walkthroughs.
Ideal Format: Best delivered in virtual format for distributed teams. Classroom training works well for security-led IT teams deploying full-stack Palo Alto.
If you’re a Visual learner who prefers video over text, this YouTube guide will help you choose the right SD-WAN course suitable for your needs. Watch the video below:
#2. Implementing Cisco SD-WAN Solutions (ENSDWI)
This five-day instructor-led course is built for IT professionals who want to master Cisco’s SD-WAN platform. It blends architecture, policy design, and real-world labs to help you migrate from legacy WAN setups to a cloud-first Cisco SD-WAN environment.
Source: Cisco
What you will learn?
In this course, you will be learning about:
#1. Deploying and managing Cisco SD-WAN controllers and WAN Edge devices.
#2. Configuring Direct Internet Access (DIA) and cloud breakouts.
#3. Designing application-aware routing policies for optimized performance.
#4. Troubleshooting common issues across the control, data, and management planes.
#5. Understanding how to scale and secure Cisco SD-WAN deployments.
Who should take this course?
This course is a great fit for network engineers, system integrators, and admins already working in Cisco environments. If you’re planning a Cisco SD-WAN rollout or looking to deepen your skills on Cisco infrastructure, this will get you there.
It’s not the right starting point for beginners or professionals unfamiliar with routing protocols and Cisco’s CLI.
Certification Path
Completing this course prepares you for the Cisco SD-WAN Solutions (300-415 ENSDWI) exam, which counts toward the CCNP Enterprise certification.
#3. VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud: Design and Deploy
This three-day instructor-led course is designed for IT professionals who want hands-on experience with VMware’s SD-WAN solution, VeloCloud. It combines architecture, deployment models, and lab-based practice to help you roll out high-performing SD-WAN networks in real-world environments.
Source: Broadcom
What you will learn?
In this course, you will be learning about:
#1. Installing and configuring SD-WAN Edges, Gateways, and Orchestrators.
#2. Designing scalable SD-WAN topologies for performance and resilience.
#3. Setting up Cloud VPN for secure, encrypted connectivity.
#4. Integrating network services at the branch, cloud, or data center level.
#5. Monitoring and optimizing network health across VMware SD-WAN deployments.
Who should take this course?
This course is ideal for network engineers, system administrators, and integrators already working with or transitioning into VMware-based environments. If your team uses VeloCloud or plans to, this training is the logical next step.
It’s not built for beginners or professionals unfamiliar with routing, switching, or VPN technologies.
Certification Path
Completing this course prepares you for the VMware SD-WAN Foundations Skills (5V0-35.19) certification.
#4. Fortinet SD-WAN Architect
This 4-day instructor-led SD-WAN Architect course is built for networking professionals managing Fortinet’s Secure SD-WAN. It combines practical configuration, policy enforcement, and real-world troubleshooting, giving you the skills to handle single-site to multi-datacenter SD-WAN deployments with confidence.
Source: Fortinet
What you will learn?
In this course, you will get hands-on learning of:
#1. Deploying SD-WAN using IPsec tunnels and advanced routing strategies.
#2. Configuring application-based traffic steering and path selection.
#3. Managing SD-WAN overlays using FortiManager templates.
#4. Troubleshooting routing conflicts and rule misconfigurations.
#5. Optimizing performance with dynamic SLA monitoring and policy tuning.
Who should take this course?
This course is best suited for engineers already managing Fortinet infrastructure. If you work with FortiGate or FortiManager daily and want to build secure, high-performing SD-WANs, this training is a must.
It’s unsuitable for beginners or professionals unfamiliar with Fortinet’s ecosystem and CLI-based configurations.
Certification Path
Completing this course prepares candidates for the Fortinet NSE 7 – SD-WAN 7.2 certification exam, which is part of the Fortinet Certified Solution Specialist – Network Security certification track.
As an Authorized Training Partner for Fortinet, Datacipher delivers this course through certified instructors, offering flexible learning options, including both classroom and virtual deliveries. For more details and registration information, you can view our course page.
Datacipher Recommends
Start here if: You’re already using FortiGate and FortiManager in production and want to tighten SD-WAN performance and policy control.
Avoid if: You haven’t touched Fortinet gear before. This course moves fast and assumes you’re already familiar with the Fortinet ecosystem.
Instructor Insight: Most learners struggle with rule-matching logic and FortiManager templates. We double down on these areas in lab sessions.
Ideal Format: Ideal for security teams who need hands-on practice. Classroom and virtual formats both work well depending on how your team is structured.
#5. Versa Certified SD-WAN Associate (VNX100)
This industry-recognized certification is designed for IT professionals working with Versa Secure SD-WAN. It focuses on practical deployment, routing, and optimization skills. Ths course is ideal for those who want to build real-world expertise on the Versa platform.
Source: Versa Networks
What you will learn?
In this course, you will get acquainted with:
#1. Understanding SD-WAN overlay and underlay concepts using GRE, IPsec, and Layer 3 VPN.
#2. Working with key Versa components like Versa Director, Controller, and Analytics.
#3. Deploying virtual routers and configuring virtual routing instances (VRFs).
#4. Using Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP) methods to automate edge deployment.
#5. Implementing QoS, traffic steering, SLA monitoring, and secure access controls.
#6. Monitoring and troubleshooting network performance using Versa’s analytics tools.
Who should take this course?
This course is a solid fit for network engineers, administrators, and IT pros already working in or transitioning to Versa SD-WAN environments. It’s great for professionals who want to validate their Versa-specific skills and expand their hands-on SD-WAN deployment expertise.
Certification Path
Passing the VNX100 exam earns you the Versa Certified SD-WAN Associate title, proving you’ve got the technical depth to design and operate secure Versa SD-WAN environments.
Datacipher Recommends
Start here if: You already work with Versa SD-WAN or want to build hands-on skills in overlay-underlay design, analytics, and secure access.
Avoid if: You’re completely new to SD-WAN or have no prior exposure to Versa’s platform. This course assumes basic networking and SD-WAN experience.
Instructor Insight: Most learners find traffic steering and ZTP workflows tricky. We focus on these areas during labs to build real-world confidence.
Ideal Format: Best suited for professionals who prefer virtual training with lab access or in-person classes if you want direct troubleshooting support.
#6. Deploy and Manage Citrix SD-WAN
This three-day instructor-led course is built for IT professionals looking to deploy, configure, and manage Citrix SD-WAN in real-world branch environments. It’s a practical deep dive into how Citrix simplifies WAN management with orchestration, automation, and robust performance monitoring.
Source: Citrix
What you will learn?
In this course, you will get hands on:
#1. Understanding Citrix SD-WAN architecture, including packet processing and hardware bypass.
#2. Exploring deployment modes across data centers and branch locations.
#3. Provisioning and configuring SD-WAN appliances using Citrix Orchestrator.
#4. Onboarding customers and managing configurations via the cloud-based orchestrator.
#5. Performing diagnostics, reporting, and performance monitoring across WAN links.
Who should take this course?
This course is best suited for network admins, engineers, or architects planning to work with Citrix SD-WAN. It’s suitable even if you’re new to SD-WAN, as long as you understand networking basics like MPLS, VPNs, and WAN optimization.
Certification Path
Citrix does not offer a formal certification tied directly to this course, but completion demonstrates strong operational knowledge of Citrix SD-WAN.
#7. Deploying SD-WAN Technologies (DST) by Aruba
This two-day instructor-led course is designed for IT professionals who want hands-on experience with Aruba’s EdgeConnect SD-WAN platform. It focuses on real-world deployment, traffic optimization, and security integration using Aruba’s Orchestrator and EdgeConnect appliances.
Source: HPE
What you will learn?
In this course, you will be learning about:
#1. Installing and configuring EdgeConnect appliances and the Aruba Orchestrator.
#2. Deploying SD-WAN across branch, data center, and cloud environments.
#3. Managing traffic with intelligent path control and WAN optimization features.
#4. Integrating security services within the SD-WAN architecture.
#5. Troubleshooting performance issues and maintaining high availability.
Who should take this course?
This course is best for network engineers, admins, and IT pros working in enterprise environments who want to master Aruba’s SD-WAN stack.
Certification Path
Completing this course prepares you for the Aruba Accredited SD-WAN Professional (AASP) certification, validating your skills in EdgeConnect deployment and SD-WAN operations.
Datacipher Recommends
Start here if: You’re working with HPE Aruba EdgeConnect or planning to manage deployments involving Orchestrator and WAN optimization.
Avoid if: You’re unfamiliar with basic routing, WAN topologies, or have no exposure to network edge appliances.
Ideal Format: Works best as a classroom course if you want direct lab support. Virtual format is also available for self-paced learners with networking experience.
#8. MEF SD-WAN Certified Professional (MEF-SDCP)
This vendor-neutral certification is ideal for professionals who want to master SD-WAN from an industry standards perspective. Built around MEF 3.0 guidelines, it’s designed to help you understand SD-WAN service definitions, architecture, security, and performance monitoring across multi-vendor environments. If your role involves designing or managing large-scale or carrier-grade networks, this is one of the most respected certifications out there.
Source: MEF
What you will learn?
In this certification, you will gain clarity on:
#1. SD-WAN architecture, components, and deployment models.
#2. Overlay and underlay service models defined by MEF.
#3. Security and segmentation policies for application-aware traffic routing.
#4. How to monitor service performance using MEF 3.0 KPIs.
#5. Interoperability best practices for multi-vendor SD-WAN networks.
Who should take this certification?
This certification is best suited for network engineers, service providers, and IT consultants working in complex or hybrid SD-WAN environments. A background in networking (Layer 2/3, BGP, IPsec) and 2+ years of experience is strongly recommended.
Certification Info
The exam includes 50 multiple-choice questions over 90 minutes. A passing score of 65% earns you the MEF SD-WAN Certified Professional badge.
#9. Pluralsight SD-WAN Fundamentals
This self-paced learning path is perfect for IT professionals who want a foundational, vendor-neutral understanding of SD-WAN and SDN.
Designed for beginners and early-career engineers, it covers how SD-WAN works, why it matters, and how to implement it across different platforms. If you’re still exploring whether SD-WAN is the right career move, this is a solid place to start.
Source: Pluralsight
What you will learn?
Across this 8-hour course path, you will gain hands-on insights into:
#1. The core principles of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and SD-WAN.
#2.How SD-WAN differs from traditional WAN and solves modern networking problems.
#3. Real-world SD-WAN use cases, from cloud access to branch optimization.
#4. Key quality, security, and automation features of SD-WAN.
#5. Migration strategies, deployment models, and monitoring techniques.
Who should take this course?
This course is ideal for aspiring network engineers, sysadmins, and IT professionals exploring SD-WAN for the first time. No prior experience with SD-WAN is required, but basic networking knowledge will help you get the most out of it.
Course Info
This course does not include a formal certification exam. However, learners receive a completion badge from Pluralsight after finishing the full learning path. The course is 100% self-paced and available online.
SD-WAN Training Showdown: Which Certification Path Fits You Best?
| Training Program | Best For | Key Focus Areas | Certification Available? | Course Duration |
| Cisco SD-WAN Training (ENSDWI) | Network engineers working with Cisco infrastructure | Design, deployment, and management of Cisco SD-WAN | Yes (300-415 ENSDWI, part of CCNP Enterprise) | 5 days |
| Palo Alto Prisma SD-WAN Training (EDU-238) | Security-focused professionals and organizations using Palo Alto Networks solutions | Secure SD-WAN deployment, SASE integration | Yes (Micro-Credential for Prisma SD-WAN Consultant) | 5 days |
| VMware SD-WAN by VeloCloud | Organizations using VMware networking solutions | Cloud-based SD-WAN deployment and optimization | Yes (VMware SD-WAN Foundations Skills exam) | 3 days |
| Fortinet SD-WAN Training (NSE 7 – SD-WAN) | Security professionals managing Fortinet SD-WAN deployments | Secure SD-WAN architecture, policy enforcement | Yes (NSE 7 – SD-WAN certification) | 4-5 days |
| Versa SD-WAN Training (VNX100) | Network professionals working with Versa platforms | SD-WAN overlay, underlay, routing, and analytics | Yes (Versa Certified SD-WAN Associate) | Varies |
| Citrix SD-WAN Training (CNS-231) | IT professionals using Citrix networking solutions | Citrix SD-WAN deployment, orchestration, troubleshooting | No official certification | 3 days |
| Aruba (Silver Peak) SD-WAN Training (DST v9.4) | Professionals deploying Aruba’s SD-WAN solutions | EdgeConnect deployment, security integration | Yes (Aruba Accredited SD-WAN Professional) | 2 days |
| MEF SD-WAN Certified Professional (MEF-SDCP) | Professionals seeking a vendor-neutral SD-WAN certification | SD-WAN service architectures, security, and QoS | Yes (MEF-SDCP) | Self-paced |
| Pluralsight SD-WAN Fundamentals | Beginners or IT professionals exploring SD-WAN | Introduction to SDN and SD-WAN | No certification | Self-paced (8 hours) |
Which SD-WAN Training Should You Choose?
The right SD-WAN training depends on where you are in your career, and where you want to go next.
#1. If you’re new to SD-WAN or shifting from traditional WAN: Start with foundational courses that cover architecture, control and data planes, routing policies, and performance monitoring. Certifications like MEF-SDCP can build your baseline.
#2. If your organization already uses a platform like Cisco, Fortinet, or Palo Alto: Choose vendor-specific certifications. These go beyond theory. They teach you how to configure, troubleshoot, and scale real-world deployments using tools your team already works with.
#3. If you’re working across multi-vendor networks or in service provider environments: A vendor-neutral course can help you build a unified skillset. You will learn how to evaluate architectures, standardize deployments, and manage SD-WAN at scale, regardless of vendor.
#4. If you’re in a security-focused role: Prioritize training that integrates SD-WAN with SASE principles, Zero Trust, and firewall policies. Courses like Palo Alto’s Prisma SD-WAN track or Fortinet’s NSE 7 focus deeply on these areas.
If you are still unsure, our experts can help you map your background, goals, and tech stack to the right training path.
Because We are the Experts Who Deploy What We Teach
Most SD-WAN certifications are delivered through authorized partners. At Datacipher Education Services, we don’t just teach SD-WAN. We implement it for enterprises across the globe.
As an Authorized Training Partner for Palo Alto Networks, Fortinet, Versa, and Aruba, we bring real-world deployment experience to every session. Whether you prefer classroom learning or virtual labs, our programs are designed to help you master SD-WAN in practical, hands-on ways.
The difference shows in what our learners say. Many of them highlight how our instructors go the extra mile to make complex concepts click.
“Instructor personally repeated multiple concepts to get the clear idea about the workflow.”
Shreya Jatti, PAN-EPT Learner
If you’re ready to upskill or lead your team through the next wave of network transformation, we’re here to help.
You can explore all SD-WAN training programs on our website.
Frequently Asked Questions on SD-WAN Training
#1. Should I choose vendor-specific or vendor-agnostic SD-WAN training?
You should choose vendor-specific training if your company already uses Cisco, Fortinet, VMware, or another platform. Vendor-agnostic training, like MEF-SDCP, is ideal if you work in multi-vendor environments or need a broad understanding of SD-WAN technologies across different providers.
#2. How long does it take to complete an SD-WAN course?
Most vendor-specific SD-WAN courses take 2-5 days for instructor-led training. Vendor-agnostic courses vary; MEF-SDCP is self-paced, while Pluralsight’s SD-WAN Fundamentals takes 8 hours. Certification exams typically require additional preparation.
#3. What are the job opportunities after SD-WAN certification?
SD-WAN certifications open doors to roles such as network engineer, SD-WAN specialist, network architect, and security consultant. With companies migrating to SD-WAN, demand for certified professionals is rising, especially in enterprise IT, telecom, and managed service providers.
