Understanding the Modern Cisco Certification Framework
The landscape of IT certification is continually evolving, and Cisco, as a dominant force in the networking world, has made significant strides in restructuring its certification programs to reflect modern industry demands. The revamp of Cisco’s certification tracks, which began in 2020 and continues to evolve, aims to create a streamlined, flexible, and relevant path for aspiring network professionals, engineers, and architects. This article explores the new Cisco certification framework, the reasons behind the changes, and what this means for individuals pursuing Cisco certifications.
The Shift from Legacy Tracks to a Unified Framework
Prior to the 2020 overhaul, Cisco maintained numerous certification tracks, such as CCNA Routing and Switching, CCNA Security, CCNA Wireless, and others. Each track functioned somewhat independently, creating a fragmented and sometimes confusing path for learners. Many of these tracks required a strict progression from associate to professional to expert levels, often necessitating multiple exams for each step.
In the new framework, Cisco eliminated specialization at the associate level and consolidated multiple tracks into a single, unified CCNA certification. This decision addressed several long-standing issues with the legacy structure. First, it reduced redundancy by removing the need to take similar core exams across multiple tracks. Second, it offered candidates a broader foundational knowledge that is more in tune with the hybrid responsibilities of modern IT professionals.
The New Certification Levels Explained
Cisco’s revised certification model consists of five levels:
- Entry (CCENT – now retired)
- Associate (CCNA)
- Professional (CCNP)
- Expert (CCIE)
- Architect (CCAr)
At the entry level, Cisco previously offered the CCENT certification, which was a stepping stone to CCNA. With the retirement of CCENT, Cisco encourages candidates to begin directly at the associate level with the new CCNA 200-301 exam.
The associate level now features a single CCNA certification that covers a wide range of foundational topics, including network fundamentals, IP services, security fundamentals, automation, and programmability. This approach equips candidates with a holistic understanding of networking and reflects the realities of multi-disciplinary IT environments.
At the professional level, the biggest shift came with the introduction of the core and concentration exam model. Each CCNP track now includes a core exam and a choice of concentration exams. This allows professionals to specialize in areas such as advanced routing, wireless design, or network automation within their chosen domain.
The expert level, CCIE, has also adopted the core and lab exam model. Candidates must first pass the same core exam used in the CCNP track and then complete an eight-hour hands-on lab specific to their concentration.
Cisco’s highest certification, Cisco Certified Architect (CCAr), remains largely unchanged and is reserved for senior network infrastructure architects who can design and maintain complex enterprise networks.
CCNA: A Broader and Stronger Foundation
The decision to merge all previous CCNA tracks into one was met with mixed reactions. Some professionals appreciated the simplicity and breadth, while others worried about losing specialization. However, the unified CCNA is strategically designed to align with modern networking needs.
Instead of focusing solely on routing and switching or security, the new CCNA introduces candidates to multiple facets of networking, including security principles, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, and automation. Automation and programmability, in particular, are increasingly vital as software-defined networking (SDN) and infrastructure as code (IaC) become more prevalent.
This change is especially beneficial for students and early-career professionals who might not yet know which specialization to pursue. With a well-rounded base, they are better prepared to make informed decisions about their career trajectory and continue to the professional level with greater confidence.
CCNP: Core and Concentration Model
One of the most notable innovations in the updated Cisco certification structure is the design of the CCNP track. Previously, candidates had to pass a series of exams tied to a specific technology. Now, each CCNP certification consists of two exams: one core exam and one concentration exam.
The core exam covers foundational knowledge common to the entire technology area and also acts as the qualifying exam for the CCIE written test in that track. This means candidates pursuing CCNP or CCIE certifications can leverage their core exam for both certifications.
After passing the core exam, candidates choose one concentration exam that reflects their area of interest or job role. For example, within the CCNP Enterprise track, options for concentration exams include topics like advanced routing, SD-WAN, wireless design, and automation.
This modular approach is more flexible and more aligned with industry trends. Employers increasingly look for professionals who can specialize in a particular domain while still understanding the broader network architecture. Candidates can tailor their certifications to align with their professional goals or specific employer needs.
CCIE: Evolved to Match Modern Network Architectures
The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) has long been considered the pinnacle of technical networking certifications. The updated CCIE tracks maintain Cisco’s high standard but with a modern twist. Instead of requiring a dedicated written exam unrelated to the CCNP path, candidates now begin their journey by passing the same core exam used in the CCNP certification. This core exam validates the candidate’s broad technical knowledge.
Once the core is complete, the candidate must pass an eight-hour hands-on lab exam that tests their ability to design, deploy, operate, and optimize complex enterprise networks. This ensures that CCIE holders are capable of both theoretical design and practical implementation.
Cisco has also modernized the content of the CCIE lab exams to reflect real-world networking needs. For instance, lab scenarios now include automation, security, and integration with cloud platforms. This better prepares CCIE holders for current challenges in enterprise and service provider networks.
The Role of DevNet in Cisco’s Future
One of the most groundbreaking additions to the Cisco certification program is the introduction of the DevNet certification track. Recognizing the growing importance of software skills in networking, Cisco launched a parallel track that mirrors the associate, professional, and specialist levels of its traditional networking certifications but with a focus on software development, APIs, and automation.
The DevNet Associate certification is comparable to the CCNA, providing a foundation in software development, network automation, and DevOps practices. Higher-level DevNet certifications mirror the CCNP and CCIE structure, offering specialization in areas like automation and programmability for enterprise networks.
This addition signals Cisco’s recognition that modern network engineers must be proficient not only in traditional networking but also in programming languages, scripting, and automation tools. The integration of DevNet into Cisco’s broader certification portfolio ensures that both network and software professionals can find a structured path to growth within the Cisco ecosystem.
Retiring and Replacing Certifications: A Strategic Move
Cisco’s decision to retire multiple certifications and replace them with a more focused, streamlined structure was not made lightly. While the loss of certifications like CCNA Security or CCNA Wireless may seem limiting; the broader scope of the new CCNA and the focused concentration exams at the CCNP level offer a better long-term strategy.
Instead of locking candidates into a narrow specialization early in their careers, Cisco now encourages exploration and broad knowledge first, followed by deep specialization. This approach also reduces exam fatigue and the confusion associated with maintaining multiple certifications across siloed tracks.
Moreover, Cisco has made it easier for certification holders to stay current by aligning recertification requirements across the board. All certifications, from CCNA to CCIE, now have a three-year validity period, with the option to recertify via continuing education or by passing a relevant exam.
Introduction to the Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA) Certification
The Cisco Certified Design Associate, known as CCDA, is an essential certification for individuals who are aiming to establish a career in network design. In the evolving digital landscape, where enterprise networks are becoming increasingly complex and critical to business operations, professionals with specialized knowledge in network design are in high demand. The CCDA certification addresses this need by providing foundational expertise in the conceptualization, planning, and creation of enterprise-grade networks.
This article explores the core concepts, benefits, prerequisites, and structure of the CCDA certification. As organizations transition to cloud-first strategies, implement hybrid networks, and increase their investment in digital infrastructure, understanding how to design scalable, secure, and resilient networks become a priority. The CCDA certification serves as the entry point to mastering this domain.
Understanding the Purpose of the CCDA Certification
The CCDA certification is designed to validate a candidate’s ability to develop and design a network infrastructure that supports a company’s business goals. Unlike operational or implementation-focused certifications like CCNA, which concentrate on configuring routers and switches, CCDA places emphasis on the strategic aspects of networking. This includes understanding business requirements, selecting appropriate technologies, and designing solutions that align with long-term business objectives.
A network design professional must think in terms of performance, scalability, redundancy, and cost-efficiency. They need to consider how the network will evolve, what future expansions may be required, and how to integrate various technologies such as voice, video, wireless, and cloud computing into a cohesive architecture.
The CCDA bridges the gap between technical implementation and strategic planning. It helps professionals acquire a mindset that sees networks not just as a collection of devices and protocols, but as critical assets that must be aligned with the business’s growth trajectory and service delivery models.
Target Audience for the CCDA Certification
The CCDA is ideal for entry-level and mid-level IT professionals who wish to pursue a specialization in network design. It is most suitable for candidates who have foundational knowledge of networking principles and are now looking to take on design responsibilities in their organizations.
Typical roles that benefit from CCDA include:
- Network design engineers
- Systems engineers
- Network analysts
- Pre-sales network consultants
- Infrastructure architects
Although it is not a requirement, many CCDA candidates already hold the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching certification. This ensures that they have the necessary grounding in network configuration, IP addressing, and protocol behavior before they move on to higher-level design responsibilities.
Why Network Design Matters
The role of a network designer is fundamentally different from that of a network engineer. While engineers are often responsible for deploying and maintaining the network, designers are concerned with the initial stages of the network lifecycle. This includes defining the topology, identifying user needs, planning for high availability, and selecting technologies that will support both current and future business functions.
Well-designed networks offer the following benefits:
- They are scalable, allowing easy expansion without disrupting existing services.
- They are resilient, ensuring minimal downtime in case of failure.
- They are secure, with built-in mechanisms to protect against threats.
- They are cost-efficient, using the most appropriate technologies and avoiding overprovisioning.
Without a solid design, even the most advanced hardware can underperform or become a bottleneck. This is why companies place great value on individuals who can plan networks from the ground up with a focus on performance, reliability, and maintainability.
Core Topics Covered by the CCDA Certification
The CCDA certification curriculum spans a wide range of topics that together form the backbone of network design knowledge. While the certification is not intended to turn candidates into expert architects, it does provide comprehensive coverage of design fundamentals.
The major areas covered by the CCDA certification include:
- Network design methodologies and lifecycle: Understanding the structured approach to network design and its phases, such as requirements gathering, analysis, design, implementation, and support.
- Enterprise campus network design: Creating hierarchical network models that support scalability, redundancy, and performance.
- Enterprise edge design: Designing network perimeters and integrating remote sites, internet connectivity, and virtual private networks.
- Remote site and branch office connectivity: Choosing appropriate WAN technologies and topologies for connecting remote sites.
- Data center design: Basics of designing infrastructure to support enterprise applications, virtualization, and storage networks.
- Security considerations in design: Integrating security principles into network architecture, including access control, segmentation, and intrusion prevention.
- IP addressing and routing design: Planning IPv4 and IPv6 addressing schemes, subnetting, summarization, and choosing routing protocols.
- Network services and Quality of Service (QoS): Supporting critical applications through traffic prioritization and service-level guarantees.
These topics provide the foundational knowledge required to start building efficient network topologies that can support modern business requirements. They also lay the groundwork for further specialization into areas like wireless design, security architecture, and data center infrastructure.
Prerequisites and Recommended Experience
Cisco recommends that candidates for the CCDA certification have a basic understanding of networking concepts. This knowledge is typically gained through one to two years of experience working in network operations or support roles.
Candidates are encouraged to complete the Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) or CCNA Routing and Switching certification before attempting the CCDA. These certifications offer a solid grasp of TCP/IP, routing, switching, and troubleshooting—all of which are essential for effective design.
Candidates without prior Cisco certifications may still pursue CCDA, but they should ensure they are comfortable with topics like VLANs, subnetting, routing protocols, and device configurations. These form the foundation for more advanced design discussions.
CCDA Exam Overview
To earn the CCDA certification, candidates are required to pass two exams. The first is the entry-level Cisco ICND1 (100-105) exam or the CCENT certification, which covers basic networking skills. The second is the Cisco DESGN (200-310) exam, which focuses specifically on design principles.
The ICND1 exam includes topics such as:
- Basic network operation and troubleshooting
- Routing and switching fundamentals
- IP addressing and subnetting
- Network device configuration
This exam ensures that candidates understand the building blocks of networking. Once completed, the candidate can move on to the 200-310 DESGN exam.
The 200-310 DESGN exam is where the core of the CCDA certification resides. It tests candidates on:
- Hierarchical network design
- Enterprise campus and enterprise edge topologies
- Data center and network services design
- WAN and remote site connectivity
- Security and IP addressing strategies
- Network management and documentation
The DESIGN exam is structured to test a candidate’s ability to translate business needs into technical solutions. It includes both theoretical questions and real-world scenarios that require a deeper understanding of how to apply design principles in various contexts.
The exams consist of multiple-choice questions, simulations, and drag-and-drop tasks. Cisco does not publicly disclose the exact number of questions or the passing score, but candidates typically face 55 to 65 questions in 75 minutes for the DESGN exam.
Exam Preparation and Study Resources
Preparing for the CCDA certification requires a blend of theoretical study and practical experience. While the exam is not lab-intensive like some of Cisco’s implementation certifications, it still requires a strong conceptual understanding and the ability to apply design logic.
Some of the most effective study resources for CCDA preparation include:
- Cisco’s official study guide for the 200-310 DESGN exam
- Cisco Press books that explore network design concepts
- Online courses and video tutorials
- Whitepapers and design guides from Cisco’s documentation site
- Practice tests from Exam-Labs, which simulate the actual exam environment
It is also helpful to use network simulation tools such as Cisco Packet Tracer or GNS3 to visualize how design concepts translate into real configurations. Even though the exam focuses on planning and theory, a hands-on understanding makes it easier to comprehend design trade-offs and protocol behavior.
Regularly reviewing practice questions, working through case studies, and mapping out network topologies can significantly improve a candidate’s performance in the exam.
Exploring the New CCNP Certification Framework
The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification has long been regarded as the next step after achieving the CCNA. Historically, it focused on advanced networking knowledge across routing, switching, and troubleshooting. With Cisco’s recent overhaul of its certification program, the CCNP has undergone a transformation to reflect today’s multi-domain, software-driven networks. The new CCNP framework now offers a modular approach that blends core knowledge with targeted specializations.
This article delves into the modern structure of the CCNP, the rationale behind Cisco’s redesign, and how candidates can select the right certification path to match their professional goals.
Why Cisco Changed the CCNP Certification Structure
Before the 2020 certification revamp, Cisco offered separate CCNP tracks for different technologies such as CCNP Routing and Switching, CCNP Wireless, CCNP Collaboration, and CCNP Security. Each track required three or more exams, making it both expensive and time-consuming to achieve certification. Moreover, there was significant content overlap across tracks, which often led to redundancy and confusion for learners.
To streamline the process, Cisco introduced a more flexible framework. Now, CCNP certifications consist of just two exams: one core and one concentration. This modular structure makes certification more accessible while allowing candidates to specialize in areas that matter most to their career trajectories.
The Structure of the New CCNP Certification
Each CCNP certification path now follows this two-exam model:
- Core Exam (required)
- Concentration Exam (choose one from several options)
The core exam focuses on foundational and advanced knowledge that spans across the technology domain. The concentration exam allows the candidate to specialize in a specific area within that domain.
The five current CCNP tracks are:
- CCNP Enterprise
- CCNP Security
- CCNP Data Center
- CCNP Collaboration
- CCNP Service Provider
Let’s break down each track, highlighting the available core and concentration exams.
1. CCNP Enterprise
This is the most popular track, especially for professionals working in enterprise networking roles. The core exam is:
- 350-401 ENCOR: Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies
This exam covers enterprise networking, routing, switching, wireless, automation, and security fundamentals. It’s also the qualifying exam for the CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure and CCIE Enterprise Wireless written requirements.
Available concentration exams include:
- 300-410 ENARSI (Advanced Routing)
- 300-415 ENSDWI (SD-WAN)
- 300-420 ENSLD (Design)
- 300-425 ENWLSD (Wireless Design)
- 300-430 ENWLSI (Wireless Implementation)
- 300-435 ENAUTO (Enterprise Automation)
Each concentration exam lets you specialize. For example, if you focus on wireless networking, ENWLSI or ENWLSD may be the best fit. If you want to deepen your knowledge in automation and programmability, ENAUTO is ideal.
2. CCNP Security
This certification targets professionals working in security-focused roles. The core exam is:
- 350-701 SCOR: Implementing and Operating Cisco Security Core Technologies
SCOR covers security infrastructure, network security, cloud security, content security, endpoint protection, secure network access, and automation.
Concentration exams include:
- 300-710 SNCF (Firewall)
- 300-715 SISE (Identity Services)
- 300-720 SESA (Email Security)
- 300-725 SWSA (Web Security)
- 300-730 SVPN (VPN)
- 300-735 SAUTO (Security Automation)
Each of these exams dives deep into a specific Cisco security product or domain. For example, SISE focuses on Cisco ISE and access control policies, while SAUTO explores automating security workflows using APIs and Python.
3. CCNP Data Center
This track is designed for professionals supporting data center operations, including compute, networking, and storage infrastructure. The core exam is:
- 350-601 DCCOR: Implementing and Operating Cisco Data Center Core Technologies
It covers data center networking, compute platforms, automation, virtualization, and storage.
Concentration exams include:
- 300-610 DCID (Design)
- 300-615 DCIT (Troubleshooting)
- 300-620 DCACI (ACI Implementation)
- 300-625 DCSAN (Storage Networking)
- 300-635 DCAUTO (Data Center Automation)
Those working in environments running Cisco ACI, UCS, or Nexus platforms will benefit from specializing through exams like DCACI or DCAUTO.
4. CCNP Collaboration
This track targets professionals working in voice, video, and unified communications. The core exam is:
- 350-801 CLCOR: Implementing Cisco Collaboration Core Technologies
It includes coverage of infrastructure, protocols, codecs, call control, and security for collaboration platforms.
Concentration exams include:
- 300-810 CLICA (Call Control)
- 300-815 CLACCM (Advanced Call Control)
- 300-820 CLCEI (Cloud & Edge)
- 300-825 CLCNF (Conferencing)
- 300-835 CLAUTO (Collaboration Automation)
If you’re involved in managing Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM), Webex, or cloud-based collaboration solutions, this certification path is highly relevant.
5. CCNP Service Provider
For those working in ISP or telco environments, the core exam is:
- 350-501 SPCOR: Implementing and Operating Cisco Service Provider Network Core Technologies
It includes service provider routing protocols (IS-IS, BGP), QoS, MPLS, VPNs, and automation.
Concentration exams include:
- 300-510 SPRI (Routing Implementation)
- 300-515 SPVI (VPN Implementation)
- 300-535 SPAUTO (SP Automation)
This certification is highly niche but necessary for engineers working in regional or national network provider environments.
Benefits of the Modular CCNP Format
The most significant benefit of the new CCNP structure is flexibility. You can choose a concentration that aligns with your job role or desired area of specialization without being locked into unrelated content.
Other benefits include:
- Fewer exams: You only need to pass two exams (one core, one concentration) to earn a CCNP certification.
- Dual purpose core exams: The core exam also serves as the qualifying exam for the CCIE written portion in the same domain.
- Increased specialization: Each concentration exam targets a high-demand technology area, such as SD-WAN, ISE, or ACI.
How to Choose the Right CCNP Path
Choosing the right CCNP path depends on several factors:
- Current Role: If you work in enterprise networking, CCNP Enterprise is the natural choice. If you handle firewalls, VPNs, or endpoint protection, CCNP Security fits better.
- Future Goals: If you want to eventually pursue a CCIE, consider aligning your CCNP certification with the same track.
- Technology Focus: Look at the concentration exams and determine which topics you want to master. If automation is part of your workflow, opt for one of the concentration exams with an automation focus.
- Industry Demand: Check job listings in your region and identify which Cisco technologies are in demand. That can help guide your decision.
Training and Resources
Preparation for the new CCNP exams should combine formal study, hands-on labs, and practice questions. Exam-Labs offers detailed video training, exam dumps, and simulations tailored to each exam. Additional resources include:
- Cisco’s official certification guides
- Cisco Learning Network forums
- Labs using Cisco Packet Tracer, GNS3, or physical equipment
- Automation practice using DevNet, REST APIs, and Python scripting
Certification Validity and Recertification
All CCNP certifications are valid for three years. To recertify, you can:
- Pass any CCNP core or concentration exam again
- Earn continuing education credits
- Pass any CCIE lab exam
- Earn DevNet Professional-level certifications
This flexibility helps ensure your skills remain current while giving you control over how to maintain your certification status.
Integrating DevOps, Cloud, and Automation into Cisco Career Paths
The traditional approach to networking is changing rapidly. Cloud adoption, infrastructure as code, and DevOps practices are transforming how IT professionals build, manage, and secure networks. In response, Cisco has overhauled its certification tracks not only to modernize them but also to prepare network engineers for roles that demand proficiency in automation, programmability, and cloud technologies.
In this final part of the series, we explore how Cisco’s certification updates, including the new DevNet track, align with modern IT roles. We’ll examine how professionals can create a hybrid certification path that prepares them for the convergence of network engineering and software development. We’ll also look at how certifications like CCNA, CCNP, and DevNet can be combined to stay relevant in this multi-domain, software-driven future.
The Evolution of the Network Engineer Role
Traditional network engineering was hardware-centric, focused on routers, switches, and firewalls configured via command-line interfaces. But modern environments are different. Infrastructure is increasingly virtualized, cloud-based, and software-defined. Networks are expected to scale dynamically, respond to real-time metrics, and be integrated into larger DevOps pipelines.
This evolution has created new expectations for network engineers:
- Writing and maintaining network automation scripts
- Interacting with APIs
- Integrating networking into CI/CD workflows
- Deploying infrastructure using code
- Securing networks dynamically based on behavior analytics
To support these demands, Cisco introduced the DevNet certification track and added automation and programmability topics into its CCNA and CCNP exams. The goal is to empower networking professionals to collaborate with developers and streamline infrastructure workflows using code.
The DevNet Certification Path: A New Frontier for Networking Professionals
The Cisco DevNet certification path is designed for professionals working at the intersection of development and infrastructure. It covers software development, APIs, Cisco platforms, and infrastructure automation.
The DevNet path includes the following levels:
- DevNet Associate (200-901 DEVASC)
- DevNet Professional (350-901 DEVCOR + 1 concentration exam)
- DevNet Specialist (any single concentration exam)
- DevNet Expert (recently introduced)
Let’s examine how these align with Cisco’s traditional networking certifications.
DevNet Associate: 200-901 DEVASC
This entry-level certification is for those starting in network automation and programmability. It covers:
- Software development fundamentals (Python, JSON, REST APIs)
- Application development and deployment
- Cisco APIs (Meraki, DNA Center, Webex)
- Infrastructure as code
- Security and automation pipelines
This certification can be pursued independently or alongside the CCNA. For example, someone with a CCNA will understand routing and switching concepts, while the DevNet Associate will add automation and scripting skills to that foundation.
DevNet Professional: 350-901 DEVCOR + One Concentration
To achieve DevNet Professional, candidates must pass:
- 350-901 DEVCOR (core exam)
- One concentration exam such as:
- 300-435 ENAUTO (Enterprise Automation)
- 300-635 DCAUTO (Data Center Automation)
- 300-735 SAUTO (Security Automation)
- 300-835 CLAUTO (Collaboration Automation)
- 300-910 DEVOPS (DevOps automation)
- 300-920 DEVWBX (Webex APIs)
This flexible structure allows professionals to specialize in automating specific domains like enterprise networking, data center, or security.
Bridging DevNet with CCNA and CCNP
Cisco now encourages professionals to think of certifications not in silos, but as building blocks. You might start with a CCNA to understand core networking, follow with CCNP Enterprise to gain domain expertise, and then layer in DevNet Professional to bring automation and cloud integration into the mix.
For example, consider the following blended path:
- CCNA: Learn networking fundamentals, routing, switching, and basic automation.
- DevNet Associate: Build foundational Python and API knowledge.
- CCNP Enterprise (ENCOR + ENAUTO): Deep dive into enterprise networking and automation.
- DevNet Professional (DEVCOR + ENAUTO or DEVOPS): Expand into full-scale network programmability and DevOps workflows.
This pathway prepares you to manage next-generation networks that require both manual and automated configurations. You’ll be able to create Python scripts, interface with APIs like RESTCONF and NETCONF, and deploy services using infrastructure-as-code platforms like Ansible or Terraform.
How DevNet Enhances Traditional Network Roles
Network engineers with DevNet knowledge are in a unique position to fill new types of roles, such as:
- Network Automation Engineer
- DevSecOps Engineer
- Cloud Network Engineer
- SRE with Networking Focus
- SD-WAN Automation Specialist
In traditional roles, you’d configure devices manually or via a GUI. In modern roles, you might write a Python script to configure thousands of interfaces, use version control to manage configurations in Git, or consume APIs from Cisco DNA Center to dynamically apply security policies.
By adding DevNet certifications to your portfolio, you’re demonstrating fluency in both traditional and modern network operations.
Integration with Cloud Platforms and DevOps Tools
Cisco’s DevNet certification and training content increasingly focuses on:
- Cloud-native networking: Including Kubernetes networking, multicloud interconnects, and VPN automation.
- DevOps tools: Such as Jenkins, GitHub Actions, Docker, Ansible, and Terraform.
- CI/CD pipelines: Including automated testing and deployment of infrastructure configurations.
- Monitoring and Observability: Using APIs to gather telemetry data and integrate with tools like Prometheus or Grafana.
This is a crucial shift. Employers now look for professionals who can not only deploy infrastructure but also monitor, scale, and secure it dynamically.
Certifications and Real-World Tools
As you pursue Cisco certifications, you’re also building practical skills in the tools used in real-world environments. For example:
- Ansible: Automates repetitive tasks like interface configuration or VLAN provisioning.
- Postman: Used to test Cisco APIs (DNA Center, Meraki, ACI).
- Python: Automates nearly any network task, from backup scripts to custom dashboards.
- Docker: Packages and deploys network services in containerized environments.
- Git: Manages infrastructure code for version control and collaboration.
Cisco DevNet sandboxes and labs allow you to practice these tools in simulated environments, giving you hands-on experience before applying them in production.
Certifications and Industry Demand
Hybrid roles like network automation engineer are among the most in-demand IT positions. Job descriptions frequently ask for:
- Cisco certifications (CCNA, CCNP, DevNet)
- Experience with SD-WAN, cloud networking, or security automation
- Familiarity with Python, REST APIs, and YAML
- Tools like Terraform, Ansible, Jenkins, and Git
By combining traditional Cisco certifications with DevNet, you make yourself a more versatile candidate. You’re not only capable of deploying networks but also automating and scaling them efficiently.
Blending Learning Paths with Exam-Labs
Exam-Labs has become a key resource for professionals pursuing Cisco certifications. With detailed training courses, simulated labs, and up-to-date exam prep materials, it enables learners to prepare effectively for both CCNP and DevNet certifications.
For example:
- Use Exam-Labs CCNP ENCOR content to master enterprise routing, wireless, and security.
- Pair that with Exam-Labs ENAUTO or DEVCOR content to practice APIs, Python scripts, and infrastructure as code.
- Simulate certification labs using downloadable workbooks, packet captures, and automation projects available through their platform.
This blend of theoretical learning and practical application prepares you for both the exam room and the job site.
Planning a Strategic Career Path
The most effective way to future-proof your career is to create a layered certification strategy. Here’s a sample plan:
- Start with CCNA to build core networking knowledge.
- Follow up with DevNet Associate to understand APIs and basic automation.
- Advance to CCNP in your chosen domain (Enterprise, Security, Data Center).
- Add a DevNet Professional certification to integrate full-scale automation and development.
- Consider CCIE or DevNet Expert if your role demands advanced knowledge or leadership responsibilities.
This approach not only enhances your technical depth but also positions you for higher-paying roles that bridge traditional IT and software development.
Final Thoughts
The networking landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the growing demand for automation, cloud technologies, and software-driven solutions. Cisco’s updated certification tracks, particularly the integration of DevNet, reflect this shift, preparing IT professionals for the challenges and opportunities in this new era.
By combining foundational certifications like CCNA and CCNP with DevNet, professionals can future-proof their careers, embracing automation and programmability alongside traditional networking expertise. The evolving job market values hybrid skill sets that merge networking knowledge with software development and cloud integration, which is precisely what Cisco’s certification updates offer.
Whether you’re just beginning your journey with CCNA, expanding your expertise through CCNP, or taking a deep dive into DevNet, each certification level provides the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in modern IT environments. These certifications are not just about passing exams—they’re about gaining the skills necessary to implement and manage the networks of tomorrow.
Additionally, the use of platforms like Exam-Labs for preparation ensures that you’re not only ready for exams but also equipped with the real-world skills needed for the job. Practical experience gained through labs, simulations, and study resources is crucial for successfully navigating the demands of both traditional and emerging network roles.
As networking continues to intersect with software development and automation, professionals who embrace these changes and stay ahead of the curve will be the ones leading the way. The future of networking is here, and by investing in Cisco’s new certification paths, you’re ensuring that you’re ready to meet it head-on.
