Cisco DevNet Certification Track in 2025: What to Expect and How It Helps Your Career

Introduction to Cisco DevNet Certification Program

The landscape of IT is continuously evolving, and professionals in the field must adapt to stay relevant. One of the most significant changes in recent years has been the increasing importance of automation, DevOps practices, and software development. These areas are now central to the success of IT infrastructure and services. In response to this shift, Cisco introduced the DevNet certification track, which aims to help professionals develop and demonstrate the skills needed in these rapidly growing areas.

Cisco, a globally recognized leader in networking and IT infrastructure, has long been at the forefront of shaping the IT industry through its certification programs. In 2025, Cisco launched its DevNet certification track to meet the growing demand for expertise in DevOps and automation, both of which are now critical in modern IT environments. Cisco recognizes that these fields require specialized knowledge, and the DevNet certification program provides a structured pathway for individuals to validate their skills and expertise.

The DevNet certification path focuses on various topics essential for today’s IT professionals. This includes areas such as Cisco’s programmability strategy, APIs, network operations, security, infrastructure as code, automation, Internet of Things (IoT), and more. With the increasing reliance on automation and software-driven networking, the demand for professionals who can develop and manage these technologies is at an all-time high. The DevNet certification provides individuals with the skills and credentials needed to fill these roles.

The DevNet certification track is structured at multiple levels, each designed to build on the previous one. The certifications are broken down into three primary levels: Associate, Specialist, and Professional. Each level is aimed at different stages of an individual’s career and experience. Cisco also envisions the introduction of a higher, Expert-level certification in the future to further support professionals as they advance in their careers.

The introduction of the DevNet certification track aligns with Cisco’s strategy to continue innovating and supporting IT professionals in their efforts to meet the demands of modern IT environments. The DevNet track is not only designed to help individuals enhance their skills but also to benefit organizations that rely on these technologies. By offering certification paths that focus on automation, DevOps, and software development, Cisco is helping businesses address the increasing need for talent in these areas.

The DevNet certification is set to become a standard qualification, much like Cisco’s other certifications, such as CCNA and CCNP. However, unlike those certifications, the DevNet track focuses on the intersection of networking and software development, making it particularly valuable for professionals who wish to advance in the automation and DevOps space.

The Evolution of IT and the Need for DevNet Certification

In recent years, the IT industry has seen a dramatic shift towards automation and software-driven networking. Traditionally, networking was seen as a hardware-intensive field, where professionals focused on configuring and maintaining physical devices such as routers, switches, and firewalls. However, as IT systems became more complex, the need for software and automation grew. Organizations began to realize that manual configurations were no longer sufficient to keep up with the fast-paced demands of modern networks. This realization led to the rise of DevOps practices, which emphasize collaboration between development and operations teams to automate and streamline processes.

The increasing complexity of IT systems, combined with the rapid growth of cloud computing and IoT, created a demand for professionals who could develop software solutions that automate network operations. The traditional model of networking and systems administration was no longer enough, and IT teams needed individuals with a new set of skills to bridge the gap between networking and software development. Cisco’s DevNet certification track was created to address this gap and provide IT professionals with the expertise required to thrive in this new landscape.

DevOps, in particular, has become a critical focus for organizations looking to accelerate their development cycles and improve operational efficiency. DevOps practices rely heavily on automation, and professionals with expertise in automation, scripting, and API integration are in high demand. The DevNet certification program is designed to equip individuals with the skills needed to implement DevOps practices effectively, allowing them to automate processes, integrate systems, and ensure that networks and applications work seamlessly together.

As businesses increasingly rely on software-defined networking and cloud-based infrastructure, the demand for professionals with a strong understanding of both networking and software development has skyrocketed. The DevNet certification program helps fill this void by offering a structured path for professionals to acquire the necessary skills in both areas. Whether it’s automating network configurations, building APIs, or developing applications that integrate with Cisco technologies, the DevNet certification track provides professionals with the tools they need to succeed in this evolving landscape.

The shift towards automation and DevOps is not limited to large enterprises. Small and medium-sized businesses are also adopting these practices to stay competitive in an increasingly digital world. As a result, there is a growing need for IT professionals who can automate and manage these processes effectively. Cisco’s DevNet certification program is designed to address this demand, providing professionals at all levels with the knowledge and skills they need to meet the challenges of modern IT environments.

In addition to meeting the needs of individual professionals, the DevNet certification program also benefits organizations. As businesses adopt DevOps practices and automate their IT infrastructure, they require skilled professionals who can drive these initiatives forward. By offering a certification program that focuses on automation, software development, and network programmability, Cisco is helping businesses identify and hire qualified professionals who can contribute to their digital transformation.

Cisco’s Role in Shaping the Future of IT

Cisco has long been a leader in the IT industry, and its certifications are widely recognized as benchmarks for professional expertise in networking and IT infrastructure. With the introduction of the DevNet certification track, Cisco is once again positioning itself at the forefront of innovation by providing professionals with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly automated world.

The DevNet certification program is part of Cisco’s broader strategy to support the digital transformation of businesses around the world. By equipping professionals with the skills required to build and manage software-defined networks, automate processes, and integrate systems, Cisco is helping to drive the next generation of IT infrastructure. The DevNet certifications reflect Cisco’s commitment to empowering professionals with the knowledge and expertise they need to navigate the challenges of modern IT environments.

As the demand for automation and software-driven networking continues to grow, Cisco’s DevNet certification track will become an increasingly valuable credential for IT professionals. Whether individuals are just starting out in their careers or are looking to deepen their expertise in a specific area, the DevNet track offers a clear pathway for career advancement. With a growing emphasis on automation and DevOps, professionals who hold a DevNet certification will be well-positioned to take advantage of new opportunities in the IT industry.

Cisco’s commitment to innovation is also reflected in the continuous updates to its certification programs. As technology evolves, Cisco will continue to adapt the DevNet certification track to reflect the latest trends and advancements in the field. This ensures that professionals who earn DevNet certifications will always have up-to-date knowledge and skills that are in high demand by employers.

The Structure of the Cisco DevNet Certification Pathway

The Cisco DevNet certification track is designed to accommodate professionals at various stages of their careers. The pathway consists of three primary levels: Associate, Specialist, and Professional. These levels are intended to guide individuals from foundational knowledge to advanced expertise, with each level building upon the skills and knowledge acquired at the previous level.

• DevNet Associate: This is the entry-level certification and is aimed at professionals who are new to the world of DevOps, automation, and software development. The DevNet Associate certification provides a solid foundation in these areas, covering topics such as software development, APIs, network fundamentals, and infrastructure automation. 
• DevNet Specialist: The next level of certification is the DevNet Specialist credential, which focuses on more specialized areas of automation and software development. This level allows professionals to demonstrate expertise in specific areas such as enterprise automation, security automation, and IoT. 
• DevNet Professional: The highest level of certification in the DevNet track is the DevNet Professional certification, which requires professionals to pass both a core exam and a concentration exam. This certification is aimed at experienced professionals who wish to deepen their knowledge and demonstrate their advanced expertise in automation, software development, and network programmability. 

Each level of the DevNet certification track provides professionals with the skills they need to succeed in roles related to automation, DevOps, and network programmability. The pathway is designed to be flexible, allowing professionals to pursue certifications based on their career goals and areas of interest.

Cisco’s DevNet certification program is not just for software developers or network engineers. It is aimed at a wide range of professionals, including network administrators, automation engineers, and DevOps practitioners. This broad focus ensures that the certification track provides value to a diverse group of IT professionals, all of whom play a role in the growing importance of automation and DevOps in modern IT environments.

By offering a structured pathway for professionals to gain expertise in these critical areas, Cisco is helping to shape the future of IT and ensuring that organizations have access to the skilled professionals they need to drive innovation and digital transformation.

Cisco Certified DevNet Associate

The Cisco Certified DevNet Associate (DevNet Associate) certification serves as the foundational entry point in the DevNet certification track. It is aimed at professionals who are looking to establish a solid understanding of software development, automation, and network programmability. This certification is ideal for individuals who want to demonstrate their ability to work with automation, develop software solutions, and integrate various technologies within a Cisco environment.

The primary examination for the DevNet Associate certification is the Cisco 200-901 DEVASC exam. The exam assesses the candidate’s foundational knowledge and skills across a broad spectrum of topics relevant to DevOps and automation in the IT landscape. The exam content is designed to evaluate the candidate’s understanding of software development, network fundamentals, Cisco platforms, automation, APIs, infrastructure, and security. By passing this exam, candidates will demonstrate that they have the core skills needed to work in roles that involve automation, software development, or network programmability.

While the certification does not have a formal prerequisite, it is strongly recommended that candidates have some prior experience with software development, especially in Python programming. Understanding programming concepts and working with scripting languages is critical, as the certification touches upon subjects like API integration, developing software applications, and automating network tasks. However, even those without direct programming experience can pursue the certification, provided they are willing to learn the necessary concepts.

The Cisco 200-901 DEVASC exam tests candidates across several key topics, including:

1. Software Development & Design: This area includes the understanding of software development methodologies, common programming languages such as Python, and the use of version control systems like Git. The exam tests how well candidates can design and develop software solutions that meet specific business needs. 
2. Understanding & Using APIs: APIs are integral to integrating and automating systems. Candidates must be familiar with how APIs work, including how to use them to interact with different technologies and services. The exam tests the candidate’s ability to interact with and utilize Cisco APIs to develop applications and automate network operations. 
3. Network Fundamentals: While the focus of the DevNet track is on software development and automation, a basic understanding of networking is essential. This section covers fundamental networking concepts, such as IP addressing, routing, switching, and network protocols, all of which are crucial for building applications that interact with networking devices. 
4. Cisco Platforms & Development: Cisco platforms such as Cisco DNA Center, Cisco Meraki, and Cisco Webex are essential tools for modern network automation. The exam assesses candidates’ familiarity with these platforms and their ability to use them in the context of automation and application deployment. 
5. Infrastructure & Automation: Automation is the key to modernizing IT infrastructure, and this section focuses on understanding how to automate tasks such as provisioning, configuration, and monitoring of systems. Candidates are tested on their ability to use scripting languages and automation tools to streamline operations. 
6. Application Deployment & Security: As automation is increasingly integrated into networks and applications, understanding how to securely deploy and manage these applications is critical. The exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of security practices, application deployment, and the tools used to ensure that applications are secure and functional. 

Achieving the DevNet Associate certification provides a solid foundation in automation and DevOps, and while it does not offer deep specialization, it is highly valuable for professionals entering or transitioning into automation-focused roles. The certification helps individuals demonstrate their proficiency in core concepts and positions them to move into more specialized areas, such as DevNet Specialist or DevNet Professional, in the future.

Once a professional earns the DevNet Associate certification, it remains valid for three years. After this period, individuals must recertify by passing the required exams. This three-year recertification ensures that individuals stay updated with the latest technologies and practices in the rapidly changing fields of automation, DevOps, and network programmability.

Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist

Once professionals have established a foundational understanding through the DevNet Associate certification, they can progress to the next level in the DevNet track—the Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist certification. This credential is designed for those who wish to specialize in specific areas of network automation, software development, or DevOps practices.

The DevNet Specialist certification allows professionals to demonstrate in-depth expertise in particular technologies and tools. Unlike the broad approach of the DevNet Associate certification, the Specialist level focuses on specific domains where professionals can validate their expertise. Cisco offers several specialization exams in various domains, giving candidates the flexibility to choose certifications based on their area of interest or career goals.

Some of the key Specialist certification exams include:

1. Core Exam – 300-901 DEVCOR: This exam serves as the foundational core exam for DevNet Specialists. It tests the candidate’s ability to develop software solutions that interact with Cisco platforms, including the design and integration of automation solutions and network programmability. 
2. Enterprise Automation & Programmability – 300-435 ENAUTO: This certification focuses on automation and programmability in enterprise environments. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to automate network tasks, integrate systems, and work with Cisco DNA Center and other Cisco tools used in enterprise networks. 
3. Service Provider Automation & Programmability – 300-535 SPAUTO: This specialist exam is for professionals who work in service provider environments. It focuses on automating and managing service provider networks, with a particular emphasis on managing infrastructure at scale and automating service delivery. 
4. Data Center Automation & Programmability – 300-635 DCAUTO: This exam is geared towards professionals who work with data centers and need to automate tasks related to provisioning, management, and monitoring of data center infrastructure. 
5. Security Automation & Programmability – 300-735 SAUTO: Security automation is a growing area of interest as organizations continue to prioritize cybersecurity. This certification focuses on automating security operations and integrating security tools into Cisco systems. 
6. Collaboration Automation & Programmability – 300-835 CLAUTO: This specialist exam is aimed at professionals working with Cisco collaboration tools like Webex and Jabber. It focuses on automating collaboration workflows and integrating collaboration tools with other network and security systems. 
7. DevOps – 300-910 DEVOPS: This exam targets professionals working in DevOps environments. It focuses on automating development and operations workflows, including CI/CD pipelines, infrastructure as code, and managing version control systems. 
8. IoT – 300-915 DEVIOT: Internet of Things (IoT) is an area where network automation and software development intersect heavily. This certification focuses on automating IoT environments, integrating IoT devices with networks, and managing large-scale IoT deployments. 
9. Webex – 300-920 DEVWBX: This certification is for professionals focused on automation and development in the context of Webex, Cisco’s collaboration platform. It covers the integration of Webex with other enterprise systems and the development of Webex-based applications. 

To achieve a Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist certification, candidates must pass one of the exams from the list above. The exams are designed to test professionals on their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. These certifications are ideal for those who want to build on their DevNet Associate skills and focus on a specific area of network automation, software development, or DevOps.

Like the DevNet Associate certification, the DevNet Specialist certifications are valid for three years, after which candidates must recertify to ensure their knowledge remains up-to-date. These certifications serve as an important step for professionals looking to enhance their expertise and demonstrate their ability to tackle specialized challenges in the evolving IT landscape.

Cisco Certified DevNet Professional

The Cisco Certified DevNet Professional (DevNet Professional) certification is the next level in the DevNet certification path, and it is designed for experienced professionals who have already gained a solid foundation in automation and software development through the DevNet Associate and Specialist levels. The DevNet Professional certification is for individuals who wish to deepen their expertise in network programmability, automation, and DevOps practices, and it is the highest level of certification in the DevNet track.

Unlike the Associate and Specialist certifications, which focus primarily on foundational knowledge and specialized areas, the DevNet Professional certification requires candidates to pass two exams: a core exam and a concentration exam. The core exam assesses the candidate’s ability to design and implement software solutions, integrate and automate network infrastructure, and work with APIs. The concentration exam allows candidates to specialize in a particular domain, such as security automation or data center automation.

The core exam for the DevNet Professional certification is the 300-901 DEVCOR exam. This exam covers a broad range of topics related to software development, network automation, and Cisco platforms. It is designed to test a candidate’s proficiency in areas such as:

• Cisco platforms and APIs 
• Security principles and best practices 
• Application deployment and management 
• Automation and infrastructure as code 
• Network programmability and configuration 

The concentration exams for the DevNet Professional certification are similar to the ones offered at the Specialist level and allow professionals to demonstrate advanced expertise in specific domains. The concentration exams provide an opportunity for professionals to showcase their specialized knowledge in areas such as DevOps, IoT, and Webex.

Achieving the DevNet Professional certification positions individuals as experts in the field of network automation and software development. It is an essential credential for professionals who want to lead DevOps initiatives, manage automation at scale, and design and develop cutting-edge software solutions for modern IT environments.

As with the other DevNet certifications, the DevNet Professional certification is valid for three years, and candidates must recertify to maintain their credentials. This ensures that DevNet professionals stay current with the latest trends and technologies in automation and software development.

Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist

The Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist certification represents a more specialized level of expertise within the DevNet certification track. As professionals move beyond foundational knowledge, this certification allows individuals to validate their skills in specific areas such as network automation, security, collaboration tools, and more. While the DevNet Associate certification provides a broad understanding of key concepts in automation and DevOps, the Specialist level allows individuals to focus on particular technologies and domains within the industry.

The DevNet Specialist certification targets professionals who have already developed their skills and want to deepen their knowledge and expertise in certain areas of DevOps, automation, and software development. It offers several different exams tailored to various specialties, allowing individuals to demonstrate proficiency in areas that are relevant to their job roles and career paths.

To become a Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist, candidates must pass one of the exams from the following list, each focusing on different aspects of network automation and software development:

1. Core Exam – 300-901 DEVCOR

This core exam serves as a foundational certification for those pursuing any DevNet Specialist credential. It is designed for individuals who want to work with Cisco platforms and software development tools in the context of automation. Topics covered in this exam include software development principles, network automation practices, and Cisco platforms that facilitate network programmability.

2. Enterprise Automation & Programmability – 300-435 ENAUTO

For professionals working in enterprise environments, this exam focuses on network automation within large-scale systems. It involves using Cisco tools to automate network configurations and workflows. This certification is ideal for network engineers and automation specialists responsible for managing enterprise network infrastructure.

3. Service Provider Automation & Programmability – 300-535 SPAUTO

Targeted at those working in service provider environments, this exam is designed for professionals who need to automate service provider networks and manage infrastructure at scale. This specialist exam focuses on automating network management tasks, provisioning services, and integrating systems within service provider networks.

4. Data Center Automation & Programmability – 300-635 DCAUTO

For professionals working in data centers, this certification is focused on automating and managing large-scale data center infrastructure. The exam covers topics like provisioning, monitoring, and scaling data center systems, as well as automating tasks related to network management and storage in a data center environment.

5. Security Automation & Programmability – 300-735 SAUTO

Security automation is one of the most critical areas in today’s IT landscape. This certification focuses on automating security tasks, such as threat detection, network monitoring, and incident response. It emphasizes the integration of security tools with network infrastructure and automation platforms to streamline security operations and ensure robust protection.

6. Collaboration Automation & Programmability – 300-835 CLAUTO

With the increasing reliance on collaboration tools like Webex and Cisco Jabber, this exam focuses on automating and integrating collaboration platforms within an enterprise network. Professionals working with Cisco collaboration tools and APIs can use this certification to demonstrate their expertise in integrating communication and collaboration systems within larger IT infrastructures.

7. DevOps – 300-910 DEVOPS

This certification is designed for professionals working in DevOps environments. It covers the automation of development and operations workflows, including continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines. The focus is on tools and methodologies that automate the software development lifecycle, from development to production deployment.

8. IoT – 300-915 DEVIOT

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a rapidly growing field that combines automation with network infrastructure. This exam focuses on automating IoT environments and integrating IoT devices with network systems. It covers the use of Cisco platforms and APIs to manage and automate large-scale IoT deployments.

9. Webex – 300-920 DEVWBX

This certification is focused on professionals working with Webex, Cisco’s cloud-based collaboration tool. The exam tests candidates on their ability to automate and integrate Webex applications with other systems, as well as manage collaboration workflows and enhance communication processes within an organization.

Each of these Specialist exams is designed to validate the skills and knowledge required to work in specialized roles within DevOps and automation, catering to professionals who already have experience in these fields. The flexibility of choosing from various specialized certifications allows candidates to focus on their specific interests or the technologies that align with their job roles.

The DevNet Specialist certifications are particularly valuable for professionals who want to solidify their expertise in a specific domain and demonstrate to employers that they have advanced knowledge and practical skills. It is especially beneficial for those looking to transition into roles with greater responsibilities or expand their skill sets in areas that are critical to modern IT infrastructures.

Key Benefits of DevNet Specialist Certification

1. Specialization in Key Areas: The DevNet Specialist certifications allow individuals to focus on the areas they are most interested in or those that are most relevant to their job roles. This provides professionals with the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and become experts in specific fields such as security automation, IoT, collaboration, or DevOps. 
2. Industry Demand: Automation is one of the most important trends in the IT industry. Companies are increasingly relying on professionals who can automate complex systems and integrate various technologies. DevNet Specialist certifications provide individuals with the credentials to stand out in a competitive job market and take on roles that focus on cutting-edge technologies. 
3. Enhanced Career Opportunities: The specialized nature of the DevNet Specialist certifications makes them a valuable asset for career advancement. Professionals with expertise in niche areas such as IoT, security automation, or collaboration tools can position themselves as highly qualified candidates for roles in these rapidly growing sectors. 
4. Versatility Across Different Domains: Cisco’s DevNet Specialist certifications are not limited to one area of expertise. Whether an individual is interested in enterprise networks, security, collaboration, or cloud-based services, they can choose the path that aligns with their career aspirations. 
5. Recognition of Advanced Skills: The DevNet Specialist certification acts as a recognition of an individual’s ability to apply advanced skills in real-world scenarios. This helps build credibility in specialized areas and offers an advantage in a competitive job market. 

Once achieved, the DevNet Specialist certification remains valid for three years. This three-year validity ensures that professionals remain up-to-date with the latest developments in their specialized areas, especially given the rapid pace of innovation in IT automation and DevOps. After this period, professionals will need to recertify by passing the latest version of the exam to maintain their credentials and ensure their skills remain relevant.

Cisco Certified DevNet Professional

The DevNet Professional certification is the highest tier in the Cisco DevNet certification track and is designed for experienced professionals who wish to further solidify their expertise in automation, network programmability, and DevOps practices. This certification validates advanced knowledge in the development, automation, and management of modern IT infrastructures, and it is aimed at professionals who want to play leadership roles in automation and DevOps initiatives.

Unlike the Associate and Specialist certifications, which focus on foundational and domain-specific knowledge, the DevNet Professional certification requires candidates to pass both a core exam and a concentration exam. The core exam covers a wide range of essential topics, while the concentration exam allows candidates to specialize in a particular area of interest.

Core Exam – 300-901 DEVCOR

The core exam for the DevNet Professional certification, 300-901 DEVCOR, focuses on foundational topics in automation and software development. It is designed to evaluate the candidate’s ability to design, develop, and deploy automation solutions in a Cisco environment. Topics covered in the core exam include:

• Cisco platforms and APIs: Knowledge of Cisco’s automation and programmability platforms, including DNA Center, Meraki, and Webex. 
• Security principles: Ensuring that automated systems and applications are designed with security best practices in mind. 
• Automation and infrastructure as code: Using tools like Ansible, Python, and Terraform to automate network configurations and management tasks. 
• Network programmability and integration: Automating the management and configuration of networking devices through software-defined networking and APIs. 

Concentration Exam

The concentration exam allows candidates to specialize in a particular area based on their career goals. The concentration exams offered for the DevNet Professional certification mirror those available for the Specialist certifications, enabling professionals to gain advanced expertise in areas such as security, DevOps, IoT, and data center automation.

Achieving the DevNet Professional certification demonstrates a high level of proficiency in the areas of automation and network programmability, making it a valuable credential for professionals who wish to take on more complex roles in DevOps, automation, and software development. This certification positions individuals as leaders in the field and helps them stand out in the job market.

The DevNet Professional certification is valid for three years, after which professionals must recertify to ensure their skills remain current. Recertification is required to maintain the credibility and value of the certification, ensuring that professionals stay up-to-date with the latest technological advancements.

The Cisco DevNet certification track offers a clear and structured pathway for professionals who wish to specialize in DevOps, automation, and network programmability. By progressing from the Associate level to the Specialist and Professional levels, individuals can build a solid foundation of skills and gradually deepen their expertise in specialized areas of automation and software development. The Cisco DevNet certifications provide professionals with the tools they need to advance their careers, meet the growing demand for automation expertise, and contribute to the digital transformation of businesses around the world.

Cisco Certified DevNet Professional

The Cisco Certified DevNet Professional (DevNet Professional) certification represents the pinnacle of the DevNet certification track. It is intended for experienced professionals who have already developed foundational knowledge through the DevNet Associate and Specialist certifications. The DevNet Professional certification validates advanced expertise in automation, software development, network programmability, and DevOps practices. This certification is ideal for individuals who are looking to take on leadership roles in automating and managing complex IT systems, driving digital transformation, and implementing large-scale network automation solutions.

The DevNet Professional certification requires candidates to pass two exams: a core exam and a concentration exam. This structure allows professionals to demonstrate a broad range of knowledge in automation and programmability (through the core exam) and then specialize in a specific area of interest (through the concentration exam). With these two exams, the DevNet Professional certification ensures that professionals are well-equipped to handle both the technical and strategic challenges of automation in modern IT environments.

Core Exam – 300-901 DEVCOR

The core exam for the DevNet Professional certification, 300-901 DEVCOR, covers essential topics related to software development, automation, and network programmability. It evaluates a candidate’s ability to design, develop, and deploy automation solutions across Cisco platforms, ensuring that they are capable of working with APIs, integrating systems, and automating infrastructure tasks in real-world environments.

The 300-901 DEVCOR exam is designed to test candidates on the following key areas:

1. Cisco Platforms and APIs: This section focuses on knowledge of Cisco’s software platforms and the use of APIs to automate tasks and integrate systems. Cisco’s platforms like DNA Center, Meraki, and Webex play a significant role in automation, and this portion of the exam tests the candidate’s ability to work with these tools. 
2. Security Practices: As automation becomes more integrated into business operations, security is a top priority. The exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of security best practices in the context of automation and network programmability. This includes securing APIs, infrastructure, and applications. 
3. Automation and Infrastructure as Code: Automation is a key aspect of the DevNet Professional certification. Candidates will be tested on their ability to use various automation tools like Python, Ansible, and Terraform to manage and configure network infrastructure, ensuring efficient and reliable automation practices. 
4. Network Programmability: This section assesses the candidate’s understanding of network programmability and how to use software to manage and configure networking devices. With the growing demand for software-defined networks, candidates must demonstrate their ability to automate and program network operations. 
5. Application Deployment and Management: This portion of the exam focuses on deploying and managing applications in automated environments. It includes topics like Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) practices and using tools to deploy applications securely and efficiently. 
6. Cisco’s Automation and Programmability Framework: The exam also tests how well candidates understand the various frameworks and tools Cisco offers for automation. This includes tools like Cisco Network Services Orchestrator (NSO), Cisco DevNet, and the automation capabilities of Cisco’s cloud solutions. 

The 300-901 DEVCOR exam is comprehensive and tests candidates’ understanding of both technical and practical aspects of network automation. It is designed for professionals who wish to demonstrate their ability to design and implement solutions that integrate networking, automation, and security. Passing this core exam is essential for anyone pursuing the DevNet Professional certification and is a prerequisite for taking the concentration exam.

Concentration Exam

The concentration exam is the second component of the DevNet Professional certification, allowing candidates to specialize in a specific area of network automation, DevOps, or software development. The concentration exams align with the topics covered at the Specialist level but with a more advanced focus. The concentration exam enables professionals to deepen their knowledge in a particular area and showcase their expertise in that domain. Cisco offers several concentration exams, each focusing on a different specialization.

The available concentration exams are:

1. Enterprise Automation & Programmability – 300-435 ENAUTO: This exam focuses on the automation and programmability of enterprise networks. It covers tools like Cisco DNA Center, network APIs, and automation strategies for managing large-scale enterprise networks. 
2. Service Provider Automation & Programmability – 300-535 SPAUTO: Designed for professionals working in service provider environments, this exam covers automation of service provider networks. It emphasizes network programmability, service delivery automation, and scaling infrastructure in large-scale service provider environments. 
3. Security Automation & Programmability – 300-735 SAUTO: Security automation is increasingly critical in today’s interconnected world. This exam focuses on automating security tasks such as network monitoring, incident response, and vulnerability management, ensuring that security practices are integrated into automated workflows. 
4. Data Center Automation & Programmability – 300-635 DCAUTO: This exam focuses on automation in data centers, specifically around tasks like provisioning, configuration, and monitoring of data center infrastructure. Professionals in this area automate network, storage, and compute resources to ensure efficiency and scalability. 
5. DevOps – 300-910 DEVOPS: Aimed at professionals working in DevOps environments, this concentration exam covers automating the entire software development lifecycle. It includes topics such as CI/CD pipelines, infrastructure as code, and deploying applications across distributed systems. 
6. IoT – 300-915 DEVIOT: The IoT concentration exam focuses on the integration and automation of IoT devices within networked systems. It covers how to automate tasks such as device provisioning, configuration, and monitoring in IoT environments. 
7. Webex – 300-920 DEVWBX: This exam targets professionals working with Cisco’s Webex platform. It focuses on automating workflows related to collaboration tools and integrating Webex with other communication systems in an enterprise environment. 

The concentration exam allows candidates to specialize in a particular area of network automation or software development, giving them the opportunity to gain advanced knowledge in a domain that is directly relevant to their career or job role. As with the core exam, the concentration exam is an essential component of the DevNet Professional certification and helps professionals validate their skills in a specific field of expertise.

Benefits of Cisco Certified DevNet Professional Certification

The DevNet Professional certification offers numerous benefits for professionals in the fields of automation, network programmability, and software development. Here are some of the key advantages:

1. Validation of Advanced Skills: The DevNet Professional certification validates a high level of expertise in network automation and DevOps. It is an essential credential for professionals who wish to prove their ability to design, implement, and manage automated solutions across Cisco environments. 
2. Increased Career Opportunities: Achieving the DevNet Professional certification opens up new career opportunities in roles that require advanced knowledge of automation, network programmability, and DevOps practices. These roles are in high demand as organizations look to implement automation and streamline their IT operations. 
3. Leadership Roles in Automation and DevOps: This certification positions professionals as leaders in the field, enabling them to take on more strategic roles within their organizations. Whether in network engineering, DevOps, or automation management, professionals with a DevNet Professional certification are prepared to lead complex projects and initiatives. 
4. Relevance in Modern IT Environments: As IT environments continue to evolve toward software-defined networking, cloud computing, and automation, the skills validated by the DevNet Professional certification remain highly relevant. Cisco’s focus on automation and network programmability ensures that professionals with this certification are equipped to handle the challenges of modern IT infrastructures. 
5. Global Recognition: Cisco certifications, especially the DevNet Professional certification, are globally recognized as industry standards. They demonstrate that a professional possesses the expertise and knowledge required to work in complex IT environments and contribute to business success. 
6. Ongoing Professional Development: The three-year validity of the DevNet Professional certification ensures that certified professionals continue to update their skills and stay current with the latest trends in automation, network programmability, and software development. This ongoing development is crucial as the IT landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace. 

Recertification

Like all Cisco certifications, the DevNet Professional credential is valid for three years. After this period, professionals must recertify to maintain their certification. Recertification ensures that professionals are up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and best practices in network automation, software development, and DevOps.

To recertify, individuals must pass the required exams, either the core exam or a combination of exams relevant to the latest versions of Cisco technologies. This ensures that DevNet professionals continue to demonstrate proficiency in the tools and techniques that are essential for success in modern IT environments.

Final Thoughts

The Cisco Certified DevNet Professional certification is an essential credential for experienced professionals who want to demonstrate their advanced skills in network automation, DevOps, and software development. Through a combination of a core exam and a concentration exam, this certification provides professionals with the tools they need to design and implement automation solutions in complex IT environments.

For those looking to take on leadership roles in the fields of automation, network programmability, and DevOps, the DevNet Professional certification offers the necessary validation and recognition. It positions individuals as experts in their chosen domains and opens up new career opportunities in the rapidly evolving IT industry. As businesses continue to prioritize digital transformation and automation, the DevNet Professional certification will remain a critical asset for professionals looking to succeed in this dynamic field.