Cisco Guaranteed-to-Run

Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 Advanced

The Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course equips network engineers and service provider professionals with in-depth knowledge of Cisco’s high-scale routing platforms, addressing the critical industry need for expertise in next-generation 800G-capable infrastructure. With over 145,000 systems deployed and adoption growing faster than any previous Cisco service provider platform, this training delivers essential skills in hardware architecture, segment routing, telemetry, and IOS XR programmability—solving the pressing challenge of managing exponential bandwidth demands from 5G, AI, and cloud services.

This official Cisco course prepares learners for the 350-501 SPCOR exam, a core requirement for the CCNP and CCIE Service Provider certifications. Koenig Solutions offers guaranteed-to-run dates with official vendor-authorized courseware, ensuring consistent access to expert-led labs. Graduates gain the proven capabilities to design, deploy, and optimize high-performance networks, positioning them to lead infrastructure transformation in global service provider and enterprise environments.

40 Hours (5 Days)
Live Online / Classroom
2+ professionals trained

Training Formats & Pricing

1-on-1 On Request
Dedicated instructor, your schedule Fastest
Public Batch On Request
Group class, fixed schedule Most Popular

100% Happiness Guarantee · Free Rescheduling · Secure Payment

We accept Cisco Learning Credits (CLC) —  Learn how to redeem Cisco Learning Credits

Course Overview

The Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course, offered by Cisco, provides comprehensive training on the architecture, hardware, and software functionalities of the Cisco 8000 Series routers, including the 8100, 8200, and 8800 models. Designed for system engineers, technical support personnel, and channel partners, this course equips professionals with the skills to deploy, configure, and troubleshoot these high-performance routers in service provider and enterprise networks. With the global adoption of Cisco’s Silicon One-based platforms, expertise in the 8000 Series is increasingly in demand, as over 70 service providers have already deployed these routers to support scalable, programmable infrastructure. The curriculum aligns with real-world operational needs, covering critical topics such as system architecture, packet forwarding, and network virtualization.

Students engage with key technologies including Cisco IOS XR Software, Software for Open Networking in the Cloud (SONiC), Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS), Segment Routing (SR), Ethernet VPN (EVPN), and model-driven telemetry. The hands-on lab environment leverages the Cisco 8000 Hardware Emulator, integrated with Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) and containerized platforms like Docker and containerLab, enabling realistic topology simulations. Learners configure and verify Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP), implement SR-TE using IS-IS and OSPF, deploy Layer 3 VPNs, and host third-party applications within Docker containers. A core lab scenario involves building a full segment routing topology with TI-LFA protection, providing practical experience in traffic engineering and network resilience.

Although no certification exam is currently linked to SP8KE, the course prepares candidates for advanced Cisco service provider roles and contributes 40 Continuing Education (CE) credits toward recertification. Professionals with Cisco 8000 Series expertise can command salaries averaging $120,000 annually, particularly in service provider and cloud infrastructure roles. Koenig Solutions enhances learning with official Cisco courseware, 1-on-1 training options, and a Guaranteed-to-Run schedule, ensuring flexibility and mastery. Completing the Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course positions network engineers to lead next-generation network deployments, driving automation, scalability, and operational efficiency in modern high-throughput environments.

What You'll Learn

Identify Cisco 8000 Series hardware components and their specific roles in high-performance network architectures.
Analyze Cisco 8000 Series system architecture to evaluate mechanisms for scalable and reliable data transmission.
Configure and verify MPLS operations on Cisco 8000 Series routers to optimize network efficiency and traffic forwarding.
Implement Segment Routing within Cisco IOS XR environments to execute advanced traffic engineering policies.
Configure and verify EVPN on Cisco IOS XR to establish scalable and resilient data center connectivity.
Deploy applications and utilize Model-Driven Telemetry on Cisco IOS XR routers to enable programmable and secure network services.

Skills You'll Gain

Cisco 8000 Series Hardware Cisco IOS XR Architecture Cisco MPLS Configuration Cisco Segment Routing Cisco QoS Implementation Cisco ZTP Configuration Cisco EVPN Setup Cisco Layer 3 VPN Cisco SR-TE Cisco SRv6 Cisco Telemetry Cisco Programmable Interfaces Cisco Application Hosting Cisco OSPF Routing Cisco IS-IS Routing Cisco BGP Configuration Cisco VOQ Management

Prerequisites

Recommended knowledge before taking this course
  • Working knowledge of Cisco IOS XR software and command-line interface
  • Experience configuring and troubleshooting routing protocols such as BGP, IS-IS, and OSPF
  • Knowledge of Layer 2 IEEE switching and related protocols
  • Strong understanding of MPLS configuration and operation
  • Experience with high-end service provider routing platforms
  • CCNA or CCNP level knowledge of networking fundamentals
Corporate Training
Get a Corporate Quote

Volume discounts · Dedicated account manager · Custom scheduling

Certification Exam

Everything you need to know about the SP8KE certification exam

Exam Details
Exam Name
SP8KE
Exam Cost
N/A
Format
Multiple choice, labs & case studies
Questions
Duration
Passing Score
Validity
Retake Policy
N/A
Let's Talk

Request for more information

Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0

We'll respond within 1 business day · No spam, ever.

Course Curriculum

Structured learning with hands-on labs and real-world scenarios

1
Day 1– Master Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 Hardware Architecture
Cisco 8000 Series Hardware Fundamentals Cisco 8000 System Architecture Design Optimizing Packet Flow Through Routers Investigate Cisco 8000 Hardware Components Monitor Real-time Packet Flows Troubleshoot Complex Traffic Flow Virtual Output Queueing (VOQ) Architecture QoS Implementation Strategy Overview
2
Day 2– Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 Software Provisioning
SONiC Operating System Basics Cisco IOS XR Software Architecture IOS XR Software Installation Procedures Perform IOS XR System Installation Automatic Provisioning Core Concepts Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP) Methods Configure ZTP Verification Processes Device Initialization Workflow Management
3
Day 3– Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 MPLS and Routing
Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) Deployment Configure MPLS Verification Protocols Segment Routing Fundamentals Explained Segment Routing Global Block (SRGB) IS-IS Segment Routing Configuration OSPF Segment Routing Configuration Verify Segment Routing Operation Performance Label Switched Path Setup Execution
4
Day 4– Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 Advanced Routing
Segment Routing TI-LFA Overview TI-LFA with IS-IS Configuration TI-LFA with OSPF Configuration Traffic Engineering (SR-TE) Mastery SR-TE with IS-IS/OSPF Integration EVPN Layer 2 Basics Training Configure Basic EVPN Services Layer 3 VPN Fundamentals Mastery
5
Day 5– Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 Services and Programmability
Configure Layer 3 VPN Services Advanced SR-TE Feature Implementation Segment Routing over IPv6 (SRv6) Model-Driven Telemetry Integration Configure Telemetry Verification Tools IOS XR Programmability Techniques Application Hosting Architecture Overview Deploy Docker Container Hosting Solutions

What's Included in Your Training

Every enrollment comes packed with resources to maximise your learning and exam success

Hands-On Lab

Live Lab Sandbox

Real Environment

Practice in a real lab environment with full access to the tools and services covered in the course.

30+ Guided Labs

30+

Step-by-step lab exercises designed to reinforce each module with practical, hands-on tasks.

Lab Manual Included

Full Guide

Comprehensive lab guide with detailed instructions, screenshots, and troubleshooting tips.

Post-Training Access

30 Days

30 days of extended lab access after your training ends so you can continue practicing.

Career Outcomes

82%

of SP8KE certified professionals report career advancement within 6 months

Salary Impact

+28%

Average salary increase reported after obtaining the SP8KE certification

Typical Salary Range (Global)
Entry$90,000–$115,000
Mid$115,000–$145,000
Senior$145,000–$180,000

*Source: Glassdoor / LinkedIn 2025

Job Roles

6
  • Network Engineer
  • Service Provider Network Architect
  • Systems Engineer
  • Technical Support Engineer
  • Network Operations Manager
  • Routing Specialist

Companies Hiring

5,000+
Cisco AT&T Verizon NTT Communications Ericsson Juniper Networks Dell Technologies HPE Orange Business Services BT Group

and 5,000+ organizations worldwide seeking SP8KE certified professionals

Meet Your Instructor

👤
Tarun Patial
15+
Years Exp.
5,000+
Students
4.9
Avg Rating

Total Experience: 11+ (in years)

Associated with Koenig since Sept. 2011

Domain: Cisco R&S, Juniper R&S, Huawei R&S, Data Center, and SDWAN

Key Competencies: Ability to solve real-time practical problems and give confidence to take teaching and training to a higher competitive level

Real Transformations

Course Student Reviews

Real results from IT professionals who trained with Koenig — rated 4.9/5 from 18,400+ verified reviews.

18,400+
Verified Reviews
4.9 / 5
Average Rating
95%
Would Recommend
1M+
Professionals Trained
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Passed AZ-104 on first attempt. The MCT knew the exact exam patterns and the labs were exactly what Microsoft tests. Worth every penny.”

    Rahul M.

    Rahul M.

    Azure Administrator

    AZ-104 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “I trained 15 of my team members for SC-200. Koenig's on-site delivery was seamless and all 15 passed within 3 months.”

    Sarah K.

    Sarah K.

    CISO, Financial Services

    Enterprise Client ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “The 1-on-1 format was a game changer. My trainer adjusted the pace to my schedule and I cleared PL-300 while working full-time.”

    Ahmed R.

    Ahmed R.

    Business Intelligence Lead

    PL-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “From AZ-900 to AZ-305 in 6 months. Koenig's structured roadmap and MCT mentoring made the expert level achievable.”

    Priya S.

    Priya S.

    Cloud Solutions Architect

    AZ-305 Expert ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “As an L&D head I've used 5 training vendors. Koenig's MCT quality, MOC materials, and ESI compliance is in a different league.”

    James T.

    James T.

    Head of L&D, UK Enterprise

    100+ Learners Trained ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “SC-900 and SC-300 back to back — both cleared first try. The security curriculum at Koenig is incredibly thorough and up to date.”

    Aisha N.

    Aisha N.

    Security Analyst

    SC-300 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “AI-102 was daunting but the trainer broke it down perfectly. Real Azure OpenAI labs made the difference. Highly recommend.”

    David L.

    David L.

    AI Engineer

    AI-102 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “DP-600 Fabric certification done in 3 weeks of part-time study. The customised schedule around my timezone was a lifesaver.”

    Mei W.

    Mei W.

    Data Platform Engineer

    DP-600 Certified ✓ Verified
  • ★★★★★

    “Our whole DevOps team got AZ-400 certified through Koenig's corporate training. Smooth logistics and top-tier MCTs throughout.”

    Carlos R.

    Carlos R.

    Engineering Manager

    AZ-400 Team Training ✓ Verified

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the SP8KE training course

Is the certification exam included in the Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course, and what is the exam fee?
Cisco does not currently offer a certification exam for the Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course. This vendor-authorized training focuses exclusively on building technical expertise, so no exam or associated fees are published by Cisco.
What training formats does Koenig offer for the Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course, and is it Guaranteed-to-Run?
Koenig provides the Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course via Live Online, 1-on-1, Classroom, Fly-Me-A-Trainer, and Self-Paced formats. All scheduled batches are Guaranteed-to-Run, ensuring your training proceeds even with a single enrollment, preventing any cancellations.
How long is lab access provided for the SP8KE course, and what type of lab environment is used?
You receive 6 months of lab access for the Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course via Koenig’s cloud-based LET platform. These hands-on labs simulate real Cisco 8000 Series routers using virtualized Cisco IOS XR environments.
What is Koenig’s rescheduling and cancellation policy for the SP8KE course?
Koenig permits rescheduling for the Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course, provided notice is given early. Cancellations or rescheduling within 10 days of the start date incur a 50% fee. Training may be rescheduled only once.
What is the exam format, number of questions, passing score, and time limit for the SP8KE certification?
There is no official certification exam for the Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course. Consequently, Cisco has not defined any exam format, question count, passing score, or time limit for this specific technical training program.
How long is the certification valid, and what is the renewal process and cost for SP8KE?
The Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course is not a certification, so it has no expiration. However, it awards 40 Continuing Education (CE) credits, which help you recertify existing Cisco Specialist or Professional certifications for three years.
What post-training support does Koenig provide after completing the SP8KE course?
Koenig supports your success in the Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course with class recordings, Qubits42 self-test software, and a free retake option. You also gain expert trainer access for clarifications and our Happiness Guarantee.
What are the recommended prerequisites or prior experience needed for the SP8KE course?
To succeed in the Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course, you need basic router installation knowledge, BGP, IS-IS, and OSPF experience, Layer 2 switching understanding, strong MPLS configuration skills, and hands-on experience troubleshooting large network environments.
What career impact or salary increase can professionals expect after completing the SP8KE course?
Completing the Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 course validates high-demand skills. Network engineers with this expertise often command annual salaries between $95,000 and $130,000, particularly within specialized, high-performance service provider network environments.
How does instructor-led SP8KE training compare to self-study in terms of effectiveness and time required?
Instructor-led Cisco 8000 Series Routers Essentials (SP8KE) v1.0 training provides 5 days of structured, interactive learning with live labs. This outperforms self-study, which lacks real-time expert guidance and often requires over 80 hours for similar mastery.
100%

Happiness Guarantee

We are so confident in the quality of our training that we offer a full money-back guarantee. Not satisfied? Contact us within 24 hours of your first session — we'll refund you completely, no questions asked.

Full Refund

Within 24 hours

No Questions

Asked ever

Secure Payment

Encrypted checkout

PCI DSS

Compliant