5 Exciting Reasons We’re Enthusiastic About DevNet

In recent years, the IT landscape has seen a significant shift, pushing the need for more advanced skill sets and certifications. Cisco, a long-standing leader in networking technologies, has responded by overhauling its certification programs, keeping pace with the evolving demands of the IT world. This restructuring has been highly praised, as it provides professionals with an updated, modern certification track to align with the changing nature of technology.

However, while these updates have been well-received by network engineers and IT professionals, a critical gap remains. Developers, who have increasingly become integral to modern IT environments, were left with few pathways for gaining specialized Cisco certifications that validate their skills in network programmability, automation, and software development. Recognizing this void, Cisco introduced its DevNet certification track, a strategic initiative to provide a clear and robust path for developers, automation professionals, and software architects working with Cisco technologies.

This article, the first in a four-part series, offers an in-depth look at Cisco DevNet, exploring its significance, structure, and the key reasons why this new certification track is vital in today’s IT landscape. We will also examine the major shifts it represents for both networking and software development professionals.

What Is Cisco DevNet?

Cisco DevNet is an innovative certification program designed to cater to developers, DevOps engineers, software architects, and automation professionals working with Cisco’s network technologies. Traditionally, Cisco’s certifications, such as CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE, focused on validating skills for network engineers in areas like configuration, management, and troubleshooting of network infrastructure. These certifications were essential for anyone working directly with Cisco’s network devices, but didn’t adequately address the growing role of software and automation in modern networks.

In response to this shift, Cisco launched DevNet, a certification path specifically designed for developers who work with Cisco platforms, offering a structured learning path that integrates software development with networking. DevNet enables professionals to gain expertise in areas such as network automation, APIs, cloud integration, and infrastructure as code, filling the gap between traditional networking and software-driven technologies. This certification path ensures that developers, DevOps engineers, and other professionals involved in programming and automation can leverage Cisco’s networking tools effectively.

Unlike Cisco’s traditional certifications, which focus on hardware and configuration, DevNet certifications emphasize software development, APIs, and network programmability, positioning Cisco DevNet as a forward-thinking initiative that brings networking professionals into the era of automation and software-defined infrastructure.

Why Cisco DevNet Matters in the Modern IT Landscape

As the IT industry continues to evolve, automation, software development, and cloud computing have become increasingly central to the way networks are managed and optimized. Companies are moving away from manual configuration and relying more on automation to manage large-scale networks efficiently. This shift has created a growing demand for professionals who possess the knowledge and skills to programmatically control networks and integrate networking infrastructure with applications and cloud environments.

Cisco’s DevNet certification path answers this need by equipping professionals with the skills required to automate Cisco infrastructure and enhance the efficiency of network management. With an emphasis on programming languages like Python, DevNet teaches how to interact with Cisco platforms through REST APIs, use automation tools to streamline network management, and develop cloud-integrated solutions. DevNet not only helps bridge the gap between networking and software development but also prepares professionals for the future of networking, where programmability and automation are vital.

Another important reason DevNet matters is that it prepares professionals for multidisciplinary teams. In today’s IT environment, network engineers, developers, and operations teams often work closely together. As a result, a shared understanding of network programmability is crucial. DevNet provides a common skill set that allows professionals to collaborate across these traditionally separate domains, fostering greater synergy and more agile workflows within teams.

DevNet and Automation: A New Era in Networking

One of the key drivers behind the success of Cisco DevNet is its focus on automation. As businesses scale and networks become more complex, automation has become a necessity for managing large infrastructures efficiently. Manual configuration is not only labor-intensive but also error-prone. By automating network management tasks such as device provisioning, configuration, and monitoring, organizations can reduce human error, improve scalability, and enable faster decision-making.

The DevNet certification tracks focus heavily on automation principles, particularly using Python scripting and APIs to interact with Cisco’s network devices. Cisco DevNet enables professionals to automate the deployment, configuration, and management of network devices using tools like Python, Ansible, and REST APIs. This not only increases operational efficiency but also empowers IT teams to respond quickly to changing business requirements and network demands. As a result, professionals who obtain DevNet certifications are well-equipped to handle the demands of today’s fast-paced, software-driven IT environments.

In addition to its automation focus, DevNet also supports cloud-native architectures and network programmability, two other key trends shaping the future of IT. As more companies adopt hybrid cloud environments and leverage software-defined networking (SDN), there is a need for professionals who understand how to integrate network automation with cloud services and infrastructure. DevNet certifications provide the necessary knowledge and hands-on experience to manage these cloud-native technologies and develop solutions that are both scalable and flexible.

The Structure of Cisco DevNet Certifications

Cisco’s DevNet certifications are organized into a tiered system, similar to the traditional Cisco certification structure. The DevNet track is designed to offer professionals an incremental path, starting with foundational knowledge and moving towards more specialized and advanced skill sets. The three primary levels in the Cisco DevNet certification program are Associate, Specialist, and Professional.

Cisco Certified DevNet Associate

The Cisco Certified DevNet Associate (DEVASC) certification serves as the entry-level qualification for those entering the DevNet path. It is designed for professionals who have a basic understanding of software development and automation and who want to develop the necessary skills to work with Cisco platforms. The DevNet Associate certification validates foundational programming and automation skills, including topics such as:

• Network Fundamentals: A basic understanding of network infrastructure and protocols.

• APIs and Software Development: Understanding the role of APIs in modern networks and how to develop applications for Cisco platforms.

• Infrastructure as Code: How to use programming to automate and manage network infrastructure.

• Application Deployment and Security: Basic principles of deploying applications and securing software in a networked environment.

To obtain the Cisco Certified DevNet Associate certification, candidates must pass the 200-901 DEVASC exam. This exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of Cisco platforms, software development practices, and network automation fundamentals. Cisco recommends that candidates have at least one year of experience with Cisco platforms and a basic understanding of Python programming.

Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist

Once professionals have obtained the DevNet Associate certification, they can pursue the DevNet Specialist certifications. These certifications focus on specific areas of interest and expertise, allowing professionals to deepen their knowledge in domains such as enterprise automation, security, collaboration, and IoT. There are several specialist tracks available, including:

• Enterprise Automation and Programmability

• Data Center Automation and Programmability

• Security Automation and Programmability

• Service Provider Automation and Programmability

• Collaboration, Automation, and Programmability

• IoT and Edge Computing

Each of these specialist exams focuses on domain-specific automation skills, allowing professionals to specialize in an area that aligns with their job roles or career interests.

Cisco Certified DevNet Professional

The Cisco Certified DevNet Professional certification is the highest level in the DevNet track. To achieve this certification, candidates must pass two exams: the core exam (300-901 DEVCOR) and a concentration exam from one of the specialist tracks. The core exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of core software development principles, including:

• Cisco Platforms and APIs: Understanding how to integrate Cisco technologies with software development.

• Application Deployment and Security: Knowledge of deploying secure applications in a Cisco environment.

• Automation and Infrastructure as Code: In-depth skills in automating network tasks and managing infrastructure using programming languages.

The second exam, chosen from the specialist track, validates expertise in a specific Cisco technology domain, such as automation in enterprise networks or collaboration platforms like Webex. This dual-exam approach ensures that professionals have both a broad understanding of Cisco’s software development tools and a deep knowledge of a specific area of interest.

Preparing for Cisco DevNet Certifications

Preparing for Cisco DevNet certifications requires a combination of theoretical learning and hands-on experience. While Cisco provides official training materials, documentation, and sandbox labs for learning, it is essential for candidates to practice their skills in real-world scenarios. This can be done through Cisco’s DevNet Sandbox, which allows learners to experiment with Cisco platforms and develop their automation and programming skills in a safe, virtual environment.

In addition to Cisco’s official resources, many professionals supplement their learning with third-party study guides, practice exams, and simulated exam environments. These resources help familiarize candidates with the exam format and the types of questions they can expect on the actual test.

Exploring the Cisco DevNet Certification Levels and Specialist Tracks

In the ever-evolving IT landscape, Cisco’s introduction of the DevNet certification track has been nothing short of transformative. DevNet represents a monumental shift in how networking professionals, developers, and DevOps engineers can validate their skills and stay ahead of the curve. Cisco DevNet provides a unique opportunity to bridge the traditional gap between networking and software development. This path introduces a structured certification process for developers and network engineers to gain proficiency in modern, software-defined networking, APIs, automation, and cloud integration.

In this second part of our four-part series, we will explore the DevNet certification levels in greater detail. From the foundational associate level to the more advanced professional and specialist certifications, DevNet offers a clear, tiered pathway for individuals seeking to advance their careers. We will also delve into the various specialist tracks available within the DevNet certification program, helping you understand how these domain-specific certifications can elevate your professional skill set.

Cisco DevNet Certification Levels

The Cisco DevNet certification track follows a tiered structure, offering professionals the opportunity to gain progressively more specialized and advanced skills. The structure is familiar to those who have already experienced Cisco’s traditional networking certifications, such as CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE. However, DevNet’s focus is on software development, network automation, APIs, and cloud-based infrastructure, providing a unique pathway for those looking to validate their skills in modern networking environments.

The three primary certification levels in the Cisco DevNet track are:

• DevNet Associate

• DevNet Specialist

• DevNet Professional

Each of these certifications builds upon the knowledge gained in the previous level, and while the associate level focuses on foundational skills, the specialist and professional levels allow candidates to specialize and demonstrate advanced expertise in specific Cisco technologies. Let’s take a closer look at each certification level and what it entails.

Cisco Certified DevNet Associate

The Cisco Certified DevNet Associate (DEVASC) is the entry-level certification within the DevNet track. This foundational certification is aimed at individuals who are new to network programmability and automation, as well as those with basic software development skills. DevNet Associate is perfect for professionals who want to gain a solid understanding of programming and automation within Cisco environments.

The DEVASC exam tests foundational skills, including network fundamentals, APIs, application deployment, and infrastructure as code. It’s designed for those working in roles such as junior developer, DevOps engineer, automation engineer, and site reliability engineer. The primary focus of the certification is to equip candidates with the core knowledge required to develop applications and automate network infrastructure using Cisco platforms.

Key areas covered in the DevNet Associate certification include:

• Network Fundamentals and APIs: Understanding network fundamentals and how to interact with Cisco platforms using REST APIs.

• Software Development and Design: Basic concepts in software development, including data formats such as JSON and XML, and integrating these with Cisco technologies.

• Infrastructure as Code: Automating network configurations and infrastructure management using tools like Python and Ansible.

• Application Deployment and Security: Best practices for deploying applications on Cisco platforms, ensuring security and scalability.

The 200-901 DEVASC exam is the gateway to obtaining the Cisco Certified DevNet Associate certification. Cisco recommends having at least one year of experience with Cisco platforms and a basic understanding of Python programming before attempting this exam. It is the ideal certification for those looking to enter the world of network automation and software-defined networking.

Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist

After achieving the DevNet Associate certification, professionals can pursue DevNet Specialist certifications, which allow them to specialize in specific areas of Cisco technologies. DevNet Specialist certifications enable individuals to gain deeper knowledge in particular domains, such as enterprise automation, security automation, DevOps, IoT, and collaboration platforms like Webex. These specializations are designed for professionals who wish to fine-tune their expertise and focus on a specific set of technologies.

There are currently nine specialist exams available within the Cisco DevNet program, each addressing a distinct domain. Here is a list of the available DevNet Specialist certifications:

1. Enterprise Automation and Programmability (300-435 ENAUTO)

2. Data Center Automation and Programmability (300-635 DCAUTO)

3. Security Automation and Programmability (300-735 SAUTO)

4. Service Provider Automation and Programmability (300-535 SPAUTO)

5. Collaboration Automation and Programmability (300-835 CLAUTO)

6. Core – Developing Applications Using Cisco Platforms (300-901 DEVCOR)

7. DevOps (300-910 DEVOPS)

8. IoT (300-915 DEVIOT)

9. Webex (300-920 DEVWBX)

Each specialist certification focuses on specific skills and tools that are crucial in its respective domain. For example, the ENAUTO exam focuses on automating enterprise networks using Python, REST APIs, and tools like Ansible and Postman, while the DEVWBX exam is centered around developing applications for Webex and integrating them with Cisco’s collaboration suite.

Specializing in one or more of these areas allows professionals to deepen their understanding of specific Cisco technologies and gain hands-on experience in real-world scenarios. Cisco DevNet Specialist certifications are ideal for individuals who have already gained foundational knowledge through the DevNet Associate exam and want to enhance their skills in more specialized areas of network automation and software development.

Cisco Certified DevNet Professional

The Cisco Certified DevNet Professional certification represents the highest level of certification within the DevNet track. To earn this credential, candidates must pass two exams: a core exam and a concentration exam from one of the specialist tracks. The core exam, 300-901 DEVCOR, focuses on foundational knowledge for software development, application deployment, network automation, and security. It is the core requirement for all DevNet Professional certifications.

The second exam is chosen from the list of specialist tracks, allowing candidates to demonstrate their expertise in a specific Cisco technology domain. For example, a professional may choose the DEVOPS exam to specialize in DevOps practices, or the ENAUTO exam to focus on enterprise automation.

The DevNet Professional certification is designed for professionals who have extensive experience in software development and network automation, typically requiring three to five years of hands-on experience. The DEVCOR exam tests advanced concepts, including:

• API Integration: Using APIs to interact with Cisco devices and systems.

• Automation: Automating network tasks using infrastructure as code and DevOps principles.

• Application Deployment: Implementing deployment strategies for applications and services in Cisco environments.

• Security: Best practices for securing network applications and managing security risks.

DevNet Professional certification is ideal for experienced professionals who are looking to validate their advanced knowledge of Cisco platforms and network automation. Earning this certification demonstrates that you have the expertise to design, implement, and manage software-driven networks at scale.

Specialist Tracks: Tailoring Your Career Path

Cisco’s DevNet Specialist certifications allow professionals to tailor their learning path according to their specific job roles or career interests. Whether you are focused on security, collaboration, DevOps, IoT, or enterprise automation, the specialist certifications provide an in-depth understanding of each domain, making them highly relevant to the evolving IT job market.

Here are some of the key specialist tracks within Cisco DevNet:

Enterprise Automation and Programmability (300-435 ENAUTO)

The ENAUTO exam focuses on automating enterprise networks using Python, REST APIs, and other tools. Professionals who specialize in enterprise automation can help businesses streamline network operations, reduce manual configuration errors, and enhance scalability by automating routine tasks.

Security Automation and Programmability (300-735 SAUTO)

Security is a top priority for any modern IT infrastructure. The SAUTO exam prepares professionals to automate security tasks using Cisco security technologies, including firewalls, intrusion prevention systems, and network access control. This certification helps professionals implement secure automation workflows in network environments.

DevOps (300-910 DEVOPS)

The DEVOPS exam is designed for professionals looking to integrate DevOps practices into network automation. DevOps is all about collaboration, continuous integration, and automated deployment pipelines, making it a key area for professionals working in cloud environments and with infrastructure as code.

Webex (300-920 DEVWBX)

With the rise of remote work and virtual collaboration, the DEVWBX exam is crucial for developers focused on integrating Webex into their workflows. This certification teaches professionals how to build and automate applications within Webex, manage meetings, and create custom integrations for seamless collaboration.

IoT (300-915 DEVIOT)

As IoT devices continue to proliferate, the DEVIOT exam prepares professionals to work with IoT applications and platforms. This certification focuses on managing and automating IoT devices, integrating them with cloud environments, and using Cisco’s IoT technologies to create scalable solutions.

Each specialist exam is designed to provide hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the technologies that drive modern IT infrastructures. By completing a specialist certification, professionals can position themselves as experts in their chosen field, enhancing their career prospects and expanding their job opportunities.

Deep Dive into Cisco DevNet: Automation, DevOps, and Webex Integration

In the fast-moving world of IT, Cisco DevNet certifications are gaining increasing relevance as professionals and organizations transition to software-defined, cloud-native infrastructures. DevNet, which focuses on network automation, programmability, and cloud integration, has carved a niche for professionals seeking to harness the power of Cisco platforms in modern IT environments.

As part of our ongoing series, we are now turning our attention to three key areas of Cisco DevNet that are essential for the future of IT operations: automation, DevOps, and Webex integration. These domains represent the cutting edge of IT transformation, where collaboration, agility, and software-driven processes are becoming the new normal. Cisco DevNet’s focus on these areas ensures that professionals are prepared for a future where automation, DevOps culture, and collaboration tools are at the heart of successful IT operations.

In this article, we will explore how Cisco DevNet certifications align with these trends and how they are helping to shape the future of IT. We will also delve into the specific DevNet certifications that focus on these areas, demonstrating their real-world impact and relevance for IT professionals today.

Why Automation Matters in Modern Network Infrastructure

Automation is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity. As network infrastructures grow increasingly complex, managing thousands of devices and configurations manually becomes inefficient and prone to error. The need for network professionals to automate repetitive tasks such as configuration management, monitoring, and updates has never been more critical.

Cisco DevNet’s automation-focused certifications are designed to equip professionals with the tools and skills needed to automate network tasks effectively. Automation streamlines processes, reduces human error, and speeds up deployment and management, leading to improved operational efficiency.

Cisco DevNet and Automation: Preparing Professionals for the Future

The Enterprise Automation and Programmability (ENAUTO) certification is a key track for professionals seeking to specialize in network automation. The 300-435 ENAUTO exam covers essential automation topics, including Python scripting, REST APIs, and tools like Ansible. These skills are directly applicable to real-world networking environments, where professionals are expected to automate tasks across large-scale infrastructures.

Automation skills are crucial not only for network engineers but also for developers and DevOps engineers who need to integrate network tasks into their application deployment workflows. Through DevNet certifications, professionals can learn how to automate the provisioning of network devices, handle configurations, and manage complex networks through code, improving consistency and scalability.

Real-World Applications of Automation

In practice, network automation leads to more agile and flexible infrastructures. Some real-world applications of network automation include:

• Automated Network Provisioning: Automating the deployment of network devices, reducing the time needed to set up new branches or data centers.

• Automated Firmware Upgrades: Using automation to schedule and apply firmware upgrades across network devices, ensuring consistency and minimizing downtime.

• Configuration Management: Using tools like Ansible and Python scripts to manage and enforce network configurations, ensuring compliance and reducing configuration drift.

• Monitoring and Alerting: Setting up automated monitoring and alerting systems that track network health and trigger actions like scaling up resources or resolving issues.

By gaining expertise in automation through Cisco DevNet certifications, professionals become equipped to manage these tasks at scale, transforming network management from a reactive process to a proactive one.

The Role of DevOps in Network and Application Integration

DevOps, a methodology that integrates software development and IT operations, has become a cornerstone of modern IT practices. It focuses on collaboration between developers and operations teams to shorten development cycles and improve the quality of software through continuous integration (CI), continuous delivery (CD), and automation.

Cisco’s DevNet certifications are designed to equip network engineers and developers with the skills needed to integrate DevOps practices into their workflows. DevOps enables the automation of not just network tasks but also software deployment and integration, helping organizations maintain agility and responsiveness in dynamic IT environments.

Cisco DevNet’s Focus on DevOps

The DevOps (DEVOPS) certification, specifically the 300-910 DEVOPS exam, focuses on the skills necessary for implementing CI/CD pipelines, automated testing, containerization, and orchestration. These practices help bridge the gap between development and operations, facilitating more efficient software delivery and management.

The DevOps certification validates skills in:

• Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery (CI/CD): Understanding how to automate the software deployment process, ensuring that code changes are seamlessly integrated and tested before deployment.

• Containerization: Using tools like Docker and Kubernetes to create and manage containers, which provide a consistent environment for applications across different stages of development and production.

• Infrastructure as Code (IaC): Writing and managing network configurations as code, using tools like Terraform and Ansible, to automate the provisioning and management of infrastructure.

• Automated Testing: Ensuring that network and application configurations are automatically tested before being deployed to production, reducing the risk of bugs and errors.

How DevOps Impacts IT Operations

DevOps is more than just a set of tools; it’s a culture that encourages collaboration and continuous improvement. By applying DevOps practices, organizations can:

• Accelerate Software Delivery: DevOps allows for faster, more reliable software updates, which is crucial in today’s fast-paced business environment.

• Improve Collaboration: With DevOps, developers and operations teams collaborate closely, breaking down silos and improving communication and efficiency.

• Enhance Security and Compliance: Automated testing and continuous monitoring help identify and fix security vulnerabilities more quickly, ensuring that the software is both secure and compliant.

• Increase Agility: DevOps allows teams to respond quickly to changes, whether it’s adapting to new requirements or addressing emerging issues.

Through Cisco’s DevOps (DEVOPS) certification, professionals gain the expertise necessary to incorporate these practices into their work, improving both the software and network layers of their organization’s infrastructure.

Webex: The Power of Collaboration in the Modern Workforce

In today’s hybrid work environment, collaboration tools like Webex have become central to how businesses operate. Whether it’s for video conferencing, team messaging, or event hosting, Webex provides the tools necessary for seamless communication across teams, no matter where they are located.

As organizations embrace remote work and distributed teams, the ability to programmatically manage collaboration tools like Webex is becoming a highly sought-after skill. Cisco’s DevNet certification track addresses this need through its Webex Automation and Programmability (DEVWBX) certification.

Cisco Webex and the Future of Collaboration

The 300-920 DEVWBX exam focuses on developing applications that integrate with the Webex platform, enabling professionals to automate and customize Webex interactions. Key topics covered in this certification include:

• Webex REST APIs: Understanding how to interact with Webex APIs to manage users, meetings, and messages programmatically.

• Event-Driven Programming: Using Webex webhooks to trigger actions based on events, such as meeting creation or participant changes.

• Building Chatbots: Creating bots that integrate with Webex Teams to automate communication and enhance collaboration.

• Webex Calling and Contact Center Automation: Automating the management of calls, voicemail, and contact center operations using APIs.

Real-World Applications of Webex Automation

As remote work becomes more prevalent, organizations need to streamline their communication processes. Some of the key benefits of Webex automation include:

• Automated Meeting Scheduling: Using APIs to automatically schedule meetings based on team calendars or project timelines, reducing the manual work of coordinating meetings.

• Custom Integrations: Building custom workflows that integrate Webex with other tools in your organization’s stack, improving overall efficiency and collaboration.

• Real-Time Collaboration Enhancements: Developing tools that enhance team collaboration during meetings, such as automated note-taking, action item tracking, and follow-up reminders.

• Call Center Management: Automating call center operations, such as routing calls, managing queues, and tracking performance metrics, to improve customer service efficiency.

With the Webex Automation and Programmability (DEVWBX) certification, professionals can master the tools necessary to create custom Webex integrations, making them valuable assets to organizations that rely on Webex for communication and collaboration.

Integrating Python in Automation and DevOps Certifications

A central theme across Cisco DevNet’s certifications, particularly in automation and DevOps, is the use of Python. Python’s simplicity, combined with its power, makes it the ideal programming language for network automation, scripting, and integrating with APIs. Cisco DevNet ensures that professionals are proficient in Python, as it’s the core language used for automating Cisco platforms and building custom applications.

Whether you’re automating network configurations with the ENAUTO exam, implementing CI/CD pipelines with the DEVOPS exam, or integrating Webex with other applications in the DEVWBX exam, Python is the programming language of choice. Mastery of Python is essential for success in these tracks, as it allows professionals to write scripts that automate tasks, manipulate data, and interact with network devices and collaboration tools.

Real-World Python Applications in DevNet Certifications

Python plays a crucial role in several DevNet certifications, including:

• Network Automation: Using Python to automate network device configuration and management tasks, such as setting up routers, switches, and firewalls.

• API Integration: Writing Python scripts to interact with REST APIs, enabling automation and communication between applications and Cisco platforms.

• DevOps Practices: Using Python in conjunction with tools like Jenkins and Docker to automate the deployment of applications and network infrastructure.

• Collaboration and Webex: Building Python-based chatbots and integrations to enhance Webex’s functionality and improve team communication.

The Future of Networking: Cisco DevNet, IoT, and Infrastructure as Code

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, networking professionals are increasingly required to adopt new methodologies that support the growing complexity of modern IT environments. Automation, cloud computing, and IoT are just a few of the transformative technologies reshaping the way businesses operate. With these shifts, Cisco DevNet certifications have emerged as critical tools for professionals seeking to stay ahead of the curve. They provide the necessary skills to master the intersection of networking, software development, and automation.

In this final part of our series, we will explore two of the most significant areas of growth within Cisco DevNet: Internet of Things (IoT) and Infrastructure as Code (IaC). These domains are not only transforming the networking landscape but are also opening new career paths for professionals skilled in both software and network management. Through Cisco DevNet certifications, professionals can position themselves to take advantage of these technologies and make significant impacts on the future of IT.

Cisco DevNet and the Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionizing industries by connecting everyday devices to the internet, enabling them to communicate, share data, and automate processes. From smart homes and industrial sensors to healthcare devices and supply chain management, IoT is becoming increasingly embedded in the fabric of modern life.

However, as more devices become interconnected, managing and securing IoT networks has become more complex. Traditional network management tools are no longer sufficient to handle the scale and demands of IoT. Cisco recognized this challenge and created the Cisco Certified DevNet IoT (DEVIOT) certification to address it.

What Is IoT and Why Does It Matter?

IoT is a network of physical objects that are embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet. This vast network of devices—ranging from smartphones and wearables to factory machines and healthcare equipment—has created new opportunities and challenges for network professionals.

Cisco’s approach to IoT is based on its unique architecture for connected devices, which includes edge computing, data processing, and cloud integration. As businesses and industries continue to expand their IoT initiatives, the need for professionals who can design, deploy, and manage IoT networks is growing exponentially.

The Cisco Certified DevNet IoT Specialist (DEVIOT)

The Cisco Certified DevNet IoT (DEVIOT) certification is designed for professionals who want to specialize in IoT applications and automation within Cisco’s IoT ecosystem. The certification covers critical topics such as:

• IoT Protocols: Understanding IoT-specific protocols like MQTT, CoAP, and AMQP, which are used for communication between devices and servers.

• Edge Computing: Utilizing Cisco’s IoT architecture, including IOx and edge devices, to process data closer to the source, reducing latency and bandwidth requirements.

• Cloud Integration: Understanding how to integrate IoT devices with cloud platforms like Azure IoT and AWS IoT Core, enabling seamless data processing and analysis.

• Security: Ensuring secure communication and data integrity across IoT networks, protecting sensitive data from cyber threats.

• IoT Device Management: Using APIs and SDKs to manage IoT devices, including provisioning, monitoring, and remote management.

With DEVIOT, professionals gain the skills needed to design, deploy, and manage secure, scalable IoT networks. This certification is especially valuable for those looking to work in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, energy, logistics, and retail, where IoT is driving innovation and efficiency.

Real-World Impact of IoT Certification

IoT is increasingly being used in industries to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and unlock new business models. Professionals certified in DEVIOT can help organizations:

• Automate Operations: IoT devices can automate critical operations, such as predictive maintenance in manufacturing or real-time monitoring of assets in logistics.

• Enhance Efficiency: Data collected from IoT devices can be analyzed to identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks in operations, enabling businesses to optimize their processes.

• Improve Decision Making: By integrating IoT data with cloud analytics, businesses can make data-driven decisions, improve customer experiences, and optimize resource allocation.

• Ensure Security: As the IoT landscape expands, ensuring the security of connected devices becomes a top priority. Cisco DevNet IoT certification prepares professionals to implement robust security measures for IoT networks.

By mastering these key areas, professionals with IoT certification help businesses realize the full potential of their IoT initiatives, transforming industries through smarter, more connected technologies.

Infrastructure as Code (IaC): Transforming Network and IT Management

The concept of Infrastructure as Code (IaC) has been a game-changer in how organizations manage their network and IT infrastructure. Traditionally, infrastructure management was performed manually through configurations and physical setups. However, IaC allows professionals to define, provision, and manage infrastructure using code, which can be version-controlled, tested, and automated just like software applications.

IaC brings several key benefits to network professionals and organizations, including:

• Consistency: Infrastructure can be provisioned and maintained with consistent configurations, reducing the risk of human error and ensuring repeatability.

• Scalability: IaC enables the quick scaling of infrastructure, allowing organizations to add or remove resources as needed without manual intervention.

• Automation: Infrastructure provisioning, updates, and deployments are automated, improving efficiency and reducing time-to-market for new services.

• Collaboration: IaC allows developers and operations teams to collaborate more effectively, as they share common tools and workflows for managing infrastructure.

Cisco DevNet’s Approach to IaC

Cisco’s Infrastructure as Code (IaC) philosophy is embedded within several DevNet certifications, such as the Enterprise Automation and Programmability (ENAUTO), DevOps (DEVOPS), and Core Development (DEVCOR) tracks. These certifications teach professionals how to manage network infrastructure programmatically, using tools like Python, Ansible, and Terraform.

Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist – Enterprise Automation (ENAUTO)

The ENAUTO certification focuses on automating enterprise networks, allowing professionals to manage and provision network devices through code. This certification covers:

• Network Programmability: Using Python and REST APIs to automate network devices.

• Automation Tools: Implementing automation tools like Ansible to streamline the configuration and management of network devices.

• Infrastructure as Code: Defining network configurations and provisioning devices using IaC tools like Terraform.

• Application Deployment: Automating the deployment and configuration of network services.

Real-World Applications of Infrastructure as Code

IaC is being widely adopted in IT and network environments to improve efficiency and agility. Some examples of IaC in action include:

• Network Configuration: Automating the configuration of switches, routers, and firewalls using Python scripts and APIs.

• Cloud Network Management: Provisioning cloud-based infrastructure, such as virtual networks and load balancers, using IaC tools like Terraform.

• Network Monitoring and Updates: Using IaC to monitor network health and automatically apply updates and patches to devices.

• Disaster Recovery: Storing infrastructure definitions as code to quickly rebuild environments in case of failures or outages.

By mastering IaC through ENAUTO, professionals ensure that they can efficiently manage both traditional and cloud-based network environments with minimal manual intervention, improving the speed and reliability of IT operations.

Python: The Backbone of DevNet Certifications

Python continues to be the programming language of choice across all DevNet certifications. Its simplicity, coupled with its extensive libraries and frameworks, makes it ideal for automating network management tasks, interacting with APIs, and writing scripts for IaC.

Throughout the IoT, DevOps, and Enterprise Automation certifications, Python plays a pivotal role in enabling professionals to:

• Interact with Cisco APIs: Writing Python scripts to interact with Cisco’s network devices and cloud services.

• Automate Network Management: Automating network configuration, monitoring, and provisioning tasks using Python.

• Build Custom Solutions: Developing custom automation scripts and applications to meet the unique needs of an organization’s network infrastructure.

In addition to its use in Cisco DevNet certifications, Python is widely recognized as an essential skill for network professionals in the modern IT landscape. Its integration into DevNet ensures that candidates are well-prepared for the challenges of network automation, software-defined infrastructure, and cloud management.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead with Cisco DevNet

As businesses increasingly adopt IoT, cloud technologies, and automation, Cisco DevNet certifications are preparing professionals to lead the way in transforming the IT landscape. With specialized tracks in IoT and Infrastructure as Code (IaC), DevNet offers professionals the tools they need to automate network tasks, build scalable infrastructure, and integrate modern technologies into traditional networks.

For those seeking to future-proof their careers in networking and software development, Cisco’s DevNet certifications provide the skills and expertise necessary to navigate the complex challenges of modern IT environments. As the digital transformation continues, the value of Cisco DevNet certifications will only increase, offering professionals a pathway to becoming leaders in the next generation of network automation and cloud technologies.

In summary, Cisco’s DevNet certification track is more than just a certification program—it’s a gateway to mastering the future of networking and IT. With its focus on automation, IoT, and IaC, Cisco DevNet equips professionals with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing technological world. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to specialize in cutting-edge technologies, DevNet offers the certifications and knowledge that will help you succeed.