MNB Networks - CCDE Training Reviews 9

This training exceeded my expectations, both in the breadth of topics covered and in the depth of the discussions. Even with more than 20 years of experience in network architecture, I still learned a great deal in terms of concepts, design strategies, and ways of thinking.

The slides and course material were very well prepared and clearly aligned with the Cisco CCDE blueprint. Malcolm was fully engaged throughout the training days, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and even shared extra resources on Slack in the evenings. The amount of information and exercises was honestly overwhelming at times, but in a very positive way, because it showed how rich and serious the course really is.

Another major strength was the diversity of the group. The participants came from different countries and professional backgrounds, with different ways of analyzing the same scenario. That brought a lot of value and helped us step outside our usual thinking patterns instead of relying only on our past experience.

One final point that makes this course stand out is the continued support after the training. Malcolm keeps helping those who want to continue their CCDE journey, using a direct and modern approach that helps you identify your weak points, build on your strengths, and improve efficiently.

For me, this course is not only a key step for anyone aiming for the CCDE certification, but also for anyone who wants to reach a higher level in network design for enterprise, service provider, and new technology environments.

I recently attended the CCDE training by Malcolm Booden, and without a doubt, this is one of the most valuable trainings I have ever followed.

What truly sets this training apart is its strong focus on real-world scenarios and the thinking process behind network design. Instead of just covering theory, you are constantly challenged to analyze situations, make decisions, and most importantly, explain why you make those choices. It’s intense at times, but that’s exactly what makes it so effective. You don’t just gain knowledge, you develop a completely different way of looking at network design.

Malcolm has a great ability to explain complex topics in a clear and structured way. He asks the right questions, pushes you to think deeper, and creates an environment where you are encouraged to think like a designer rather than just an engineer. What also makes a big difference is that Malcolm is a very approachable and genuinely kind person, which creates a comfortable and open learning atmosphere.

This is definitely not an “easy” training, but that is exactly its strength. If you are willing to invest time and effort, you will gain a lot from it. I already notice that I approach problems differently and am much better at justifying design decisions towards clients and colleagues.

On top of that, the training took place in Edinburgh, which is a fantastic city to visit. That really added to the overall experience.

I would highly recommend this training to anyone who is serious about network design or preparing for the CCDE level. This is one that truly helps you grow.

I want to be honest in this review: although I started out with a bit of a bias about what an ‘intensive’ training course for a Cisco exam could offer me, I returned to Italy completely satisfied. In fact, having thoroughly enjoyed the courses run by an Italian Cisco learning partner on the pathway that took me from CCNA to my two CCNPs (R&S, Collaboration), I found (again with the same learning partner, attending face-to-face lessons in Milan) a marked reduction in ‘what I took away’ from the five-day course. If, on the other hand, I found the 5 days spent in Edinburgh to be money well spent, the credit (from my point of view) goes to Malcolm. I’ll summarise his 3 main strengths as follows:
1) a very long track record of designing highly complex networks;
2) great humility in his approach to students: when discussing a design with him at the blackboard, you feel like his peer and he helps you better understand the reasoning behind a particular choice;
3) a learning platform (which remains available to students for one year after the course ends). MNB Networks Training has developed a platform that helps students (through downloadable materials and simulations of the Practical Exam scenario) assess their level of preparation before wasting time (and money) trying to pass the CCDE Practical.
Last but not least: the average standard of Malcolm’s classes is outstanding. Whether or not I pass the CCDE (within a two-year timeframe) will continue to depend largely on how much effort I put in. That said, I am certain that the content of Malcolm’s training and the ‘professional network’ of the course students are an added value that will support me in my professional development as a networking architect.

I felt very privileged to take part in the CCDE bootcamp 2026. Beyond Malcolm’s technical expertise, I really appreciated his kindness and authenticity. I also feel lucky to have been surrounded by such great colleagues!

I attended the CCDE Bootcamp in March 2025 and it has been the best Bootcamp I have personally attended and I have attended quite a few worldwide. We were engaged in different real world design scenarios and the labs on Multicast Design and Automation were really good. Malcolm challenges you to think as an architect and not just as an engineer. The content delivery is also excellently put together and with the study group we have gone on to start post Bootcamp is in my opinion to right way to keep engaged and focused to prepare toward the CCDE certification. I would highly recommend this training to anyone interested in deepening their understanding of Network design and architecture and or planning to sit the CCDE certification.

Excellent training, delivered by distinguished network architect Malcolm Booden.

Main focus is on improving both technical knowledge and scenario-processing and decision-making skills.

Highly recommended

I can highly recommend the training. It is very pratical and gives you useful insights for the CCDE exam preparation

Terrific execution, very engaging and with great technical depth.

Malcolm is really good at it, with loads of real life experience which is very important for not just passing the CCDE exam but essential for a successful career in network architecture.