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HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional Switching Quick Facts
The HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional Switching certification empowers you to master the art of implementing, managing, and optimizing modern wired network solutions. This guide provides an uplifting overview of the exam and helps you focus on the essential skills that pave the way to confident network design and administration.
How does the HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional Switching certification boost your expertise?
This certification validates your ability to design, deploy, and maintain efficient wired network infrastructures using HPE Aruba Networking technologies. It demonstrates that you can implement Layer 2 and Layer 3 configurations, enhance performance through Quality of Service (QoS), and maintain network security and reliability at scale. Ideal for professional network engineers and IT specialists, this credential showcases your proficiency in building agile and trusted enterprise networks powered by Aruba switching solutions.
Who is the HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional – Switching certification designed for?
The HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional – Switching (HPE7-A08) certification is designed for networking professionals eager to validate their expertise in deploying, managing, and optimizing enterprise-grade wired network solutions. It’s an excellent choice for IT professionals who work with multi-site environments and want to advance their careers in modern enterprise networking.
This certification is best suited for:
- Network Engineers and Senior Network Engineers responsible for implementing switching infrastructures
- Network Consultants who design and optimize enterprise connectivity
- Tier 2/3 Network Support personnel managing campus and data center networks
If you regularly operate or troubleshoot wired networks using HPE Aruba hardware, this certification highlights your technical mastery and commitment to high-performance enterprise networking.
What does earning this certification mean for your career?
Achieving the HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional – Switching credential signals that you can confidently implement and operate Aruba’s high-performing wired network solutions across diverse environments. This certification enhances your credibility, expands your technical portfolio, and helps you gain recognition within both enterprise IT and the networking community.
Employers value Aruba-certified professionals because they bring proven, job-ready expertise to deploy secure, scalable, and efficient network infrastructures. Your certification can also serve as a launching pad for specialized or senior-level HPE certifications in network design, security, and mobility.
What is the current exam code for the Aruba Switching certification?
The exam code for this certification is HPE7-A08. You’ll see this code listed on the registration portal and official materials. Candidates should always ensure their preparation resources align with Exam HPE7-A08, as it represents the latest validated objectives and topics from HPE Education Services.
What are the main details of the HPE7-A08 exam?
The HPE7-A08 exam is a proctored test that measures your knowledge of core and advanced switching technologies.
Key details include:
- Exam duration: 120 minutes
- Total questions: 75
- Passing score: 65%
- Exam type: Multiple-choice and multi-select questions
- Delivery: Online or in-person through an authorized HPE testing provider
The exam may also include a few beta questions that do not impact your score but are used for continuous improvement.
How much does the HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional – Switching exam cost?
The exam costs $350 USD. Pricing may vary slightly depending on your region due to taxes or test center fees. It’s a worthwhile investment that emphasizes your expertise in configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting Aruba’s enterprise switching technologies—skills that are in high demand around the world.
How many questions are on the exam, and what formats can you expect?
You’ll encounter 75 questions that blend multiple-choice and multi-select formats. These questions evaluate both conceptual understanding and applied troubleshooting abilities.
Expect scenario-driven items that reflect real-world environments—covering tasks such as switch provisioning, Layer 2 and Layer 3 configuration, and network performance improvement. Properly pacing yourself is key; most candidates find they can manage the time comfortably with steady focus.
How long will you have to complete the exam?
You’ll have 120 minutes (2 hours) to complete the exam. This provides ample time to analyze each scenario carefully, apply practical reasoning, and double-check your responses. Maintaining a calm, steady pace throughout the test will allow you to confidently navigate both technical and conceptual questions.
What is the minimum score needed to pass?
You’ll need to achieve a 65% score or higher to pass. Since the Aruba Switching exam evaluates multiple domains, your total percentage reflects overall competency across subjects like implementation, configuration, troubleshooting, and management. Even if one section feels stronger than another, your combined score determines your success.
In what languages is the exam available?
The exam is delivered in English, Japanese, and Latin American Spanish. This multilingual availability ensures accessibility for global professionals who work with HPE Aruba technologies in various regions. Be sure to select the language you’re most comfortable with during registration to ensure complete understanding of technical scenarios and terminology.
What topics are covered on the HPE7-A08 Aruba Switching exam?
The HPE7-A08 exam covers four major content domains that mirror real-world networking workflows:
- Create the Implementation Plan for the Wired Network Solution
- Install and Configure the Wired Network Solution
- Troubleshoot the Wired Network Solution
- Manage, Maintain, Optimize, and Monitor the Wired Network Solution
Each domain tests your ability to plan deployments, execute configurations using both Aruba Central and CLI, handle network performance issues effectively, and sustain ongoing optimization through proactive monitoring and management.
What knowledge areas should you master before taking this certification?
Before the exam, ensure you are comfortable with key technical domains such as:
- Understanding the Aruba switching portfolio and where each model fits in different customer environments
- Configuring Layer 2 and Layer 3 services, including VLANs, routing protocols, and overlays
- Using Aruba Central to provision and manage network devices
- Applying network security features, QoS policies, and multicast configurations
- Performing network audits, programmatic configurations, and ongoing performance monitoring
Focusing on these areas will ensure you’re prepared for both exam concepts and practical application in the field.
What kind of experience should candidates have before attempting this certification?
HPE recommends that candidates have at least two years of professional networking experience—particularly in environments involving multiple sites, edge branches, and campus networks. You should be familiar with daily tasks such as configuring switches, supporting end-user connections, and managing VLAN and routing designs.
Real-world familiarity helps you quickly interpret exam scenarios and make the right technical decisions under pressure.
Is hands-on experience required for success?
While not mandatory, hands-on experience is one of the best ways to prepare for this exam. Setting up a lab or working with actual Aruba switches reinforces your understanding of CLI commands, network design principles, and troubleshooting workflows. Practical exposure bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and professional application, making your learning more engaging and memorable.
Are there official study materials or training courses available?
Yes. HPE provides comprehensive training options designed to prepare you thoroughly for this credential. The HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional – Switching Study Guide and related HPE training courses cover every objective tested on the exam.
Additionally, complement your studies with realistic simulation tests, such as those found in Aruba Professional Switching practice exams, which closely mirror the actual testing environment.
What are the best ways to prepare for the HPE7-A08 certification exam?
A focused study plan combining multiple learning methods tends to yield the best results. Consider the following approach:
- Review HPE’s official study guide to understand exam objectives.
- Participate in Aruba training for guided, hands-on instruction.
- Practice hands-on configuration in a lab or virtual environment.
- Engage with Aruba communities to learn real-world use cases and troubleshooting tips.
- Take multiple practice tests to build confidence and assess readiness before exam day.
Consistency and structured review will position you for success.
How challenging is the HPE Aruba Switching Professional exam?
The exam is designed to measure applied expertise rather than rote memorization. Candidates who invest time in both studying and practical application find it to be an enjoyable opportunity to demonstrate their skillset. With thorough preparation and understanding of networking concepts, you can approach the test confidently and effectively.
How long is the certification valid once earned?
Your HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional – Switching credential remains valid for three years. After that period, you can recertify by passing the latest version of the exam or by advancing to a higher-level Aruba certification. Keeping your certification active ensures you remain aligned with evolving networking trends and enterprise technology advancements.
What certifications or career paths can you pursue next?
After earning your Aruba Professional Switching credential, many professionals continue to expand their expertise with related HPE certifications, such as:
- HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional – Network Security
- HPE Aruba Networking Certified Expert – Switching
- HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional – Mobility
These advanced credentials build on your switching foundation and further distinguish you as an enterprise networking specialist.
Where can you take the HPE7-A08 certification exam?
You can take the exam online with remote proctoring or in person at an authorized testing center. The flexibility allows you to choose an environment that fits your schedule and comfort level. Online testing offers convenience and accessibility, while in-person exams provide a traditional, controlled setting.
How do you register for the Aruba Professional – Switching exam?
To register for the HPE7-A08 exam:
- Visit HPE’s certification platform.
- Create or log in to your HPE credentials account.
- Locate the HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional – Switching exam.
- Select your preferred testing method (in-person or online).
- Choose a convenient exam date, time, and location.
- Complete payment and review your confirmation details.
For official registration and program details, visit the HPE official certification page for Aruba Networking Certified Professional – Switching.
Earning the HPE Aruba Networking Certified Professional – Switching certification demonstrates your commitment to excellence in enterprise wired networking. With the right preparation, practical training, and confidence, you’ll gain a globally respected credential that validates your expertise and enhances your professional reach in the ever-evolving world of networking.
