I recently received my VCP6-DCV Certification from VMware by Passing the 2V0-621 Proctored Exam with Pearson VUE.
The Journey
For many years I have used VMware products. I distinctly recall getting my hands on VMware Workstation back in 2001, and it was truly an amazing tool. I could emulate Windows 3.1 and Windows 95, QNX, and even a few BSD environments, which I used to learn and troubleshoot issues.
Over the years I continued to use VMware line of products from: Workstation, ESX, GSX, and lastly the introduction of VirtualCenter.
Fast forward to now: The latest products have changed the landscape of running the data center, desktop provisioning, and the rapid deployment of test/development systems.
It was a no-brainer that I should obtain a certificate, but I never felt the need to. This changed when I was made a vExpert in 2017 this year, and that initiated my drive to do more with my knowledge and experience with the product. I now wanted to “prove” to myself, and perhaps others that I had what it takes to pass the exam and have an official recognition backing my previous and current experience levels.
VCP6-DCV Prerequisite
Obtaining the VCP6-DCV Certification requires a set of prerequisites. You need to meet all 3 requirements:
- Attend an authorized training course
- Pass the vSphere Foundations exam (2V0-620)
- Pass the VCP6-DCV exam (2V0-621)
Training
The most difficult part of my path to being a vCP was finding a reputable company to train with in addition to scheduling the time to attend training. The following may sound like a plug and do I assure you that I am not being compensated for writing about them.
I choose to train with a company by the name of StormWind as they offer exceptional VMware Certified professional training which is not only budget friendly, but doesn’t require travel as training is instructor lead; Live in real time and can be done from the comfort of your home or office.
The course I enrolled in was: VMware vSphere: Install, Configure, Manage [V6], with instructor: Vince Rightley.
This was a very engaging class which allowed for attendees to not only be instructed but to participate in supplemental discussions which I personally found to be beneficial. Labs were particularly useful as they allowed for students to get hands on.
Study
vSphere Foundations exam (2V0-620)
After completion of my course I was now qualified to take the vSphere Foundations exam (2V0-620). Admittedly I rushed in to take this exam and FAILD my first attempt.
This was an eye opener that I was not fully prepared to take the test. What I discovered was that many of the resources can be found on VMware’s My Learn site. I would highly recommend following their guidance.
VCP6-DCV exam (2V0-621)
After successful passing the vSphere Foundations exam (2V0-620) it was time to start preparing myself for the VCP6-DCV exam (2V0-621)
VCP6-DCV exam Preparation
I have a few suggestions to make regarding preparation for the VCP6-DCV exam which I believe was beneficial to my success in passing.
Study the materials you obtained in your training course. Continue to leverage the study notes you made for yourself from the Foundations exam (2V0-620). Yes! You should have been keeping notes.
Seek out resources from VMware’s My Learn site. They are beneficial to your success.
Search ‘Google’ for VCP-DCV Study Guides. You will find many results many of great value
Practice Labs
I highly recommend that you gain access to a lab such as VMware’s Hands-On Labs (HOL) to get hands on to all the subject areas covered under the VCP6-DCA as you will need them. I built my own lab so I could have the full experience of building from scratch, to give me a full understanding of the environment.
Test many scenarios including areas of troubleshooting things which are broken (I had to break them, so I could fix).
Familiarizing yourself with acronyms and terms is also very helpful. Example: http://jermsmit.com/vmware-vcenter-terms-acronyms-glossary-tag-your-it/
Find yourself a practice test, and take it once a week to get yourself in accustom to taking tests; In my case it’s been a long time, and practice pays off.
Originally Posted on my LinkedIn
And, that’s it all folks.
– Jermal