Comparing Cisco DevNet and JNCIA-DevOps: Which Is Tougher?

Understanding the Landscape of DevOps Certifications—Cisco DevNet and Juniper JNCIA-DevOps

In today’s rapidly evolving IT world, automation and programmability have transformed how networks are built, operated, and managed. With the growth of DevOps practices across the networking domain, certification programs such as Cisco DevNet and Juniper JNCIA-DevOps are designed to equip professionals with the necessary skills to thrive in these hybrid roles. This part focuses on introducing the DevOps landscape within Cisco and Juniper, offering insights into their respective certifications, core differences, and foundational knowledge areas.

Introduction to DevOps in Networking

DevOps, a blend of software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops), has traditionally focused on application development environments. However, its principles are increasingly being applied to network operations. This includes using version control, automation tools, and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines to manage network infrastructure as code. The goal is to bring speed, consistency, and reliability to network provisioning, monitoring, and configuration.

Networking DevOps incorporates a range of technologies and tools such as APIs, Python scripting, automation platforms like Ansible and Terraform, containerization through Docker or Kubernetes, and configuration frameworks that allow dynamic management of network states. The integration of these tools helps streamline network operations, reduce manual configuration errors, and support the agile delivery of services.

As businesses demand faster and more reliable digital services, network engineers are expected to be familiar with these tools. This is where certifications like Cisco DevNet and Juniper JNCIA-DevOps play a critical role.

Overview of Cisco DevNet Associate Certification

The Cisco DevNet Associate certification, also known by its exam code 200-901 DEVASC, is the entry-level credential in Cisco’s DevNet certification track. It is designed for network engineers, software developers, and DevOps professionals who want to demonstrate their ability to automate and program Cisco network environments.

This certification bridges the traditional gap between networking and software development. Candidates are expected to understand both the infrastructure and the code. The exam includes topics such as

• Software development and design fundamentals

• RESTful APIs and API consumption

• Cisco platform-specific APIs (DNA Center, Webex, Meraki)

• Infrastructure as code and automation tools like Ansible

• Application deployment models, containers, and microservices

• Network fundamentals and security principles

What makes DevNet Associate unique is its breadth. It not only tests on Cisco platforms but also on foundational programming and development skills. The role of Python is particularly prominent throughout the curriculum.

Overview of Juniper JNCIA-DevOps Certification

The Juniper JNCIA-DevOps certification (JN0-220) is part of Juniper’s network automation and DevOps certification track. It focuses on the application of DevOps principles within the context of Juniper’s Junos OS. While it is also an associate-level certification, it has a more specific and narrower scope than Cisco’s DevNet.

JNCIA-DevOps is targeted toward:

• Network engineers working in Junos-based environments

• IT professionals who are adopting automation and scripting

• Entry-level DevOps engineers seeking to understand infrastructure automation

The exam includes topics such as

• Junos automation architecture

• Scripting using Python and Juniper’s PyEZ library

• Working with XML, JSON, and YAML for configuration and data modeling

• Automating device configuration using NETCONF and REST APIs

• Utilizing Ansible for device management

• Introduction to version control systems like Git

The emphasis is on automation tools and the operational side of implementing DevOps in networks, particularly in Junos environments.

Key Differences Between Cisco DevNet and JNCIA-DevOps

While both certifications serve similar goals, they diverge in scope, technical depth, and application focus.

1. Scope of Content Cisco DevNet covers a wider range of topics, including application development, security models, CI/CD pipelines, and multiple Cisco platforms. In contrast, JNCIA-DevOps focuses more narrowly on Junos OS automation tools and scripting for configuration management.

2. Programming Focus Cisco DevNet demands a more robust knowledge of software development, especially Python programming. It often ventures into areas like application design and testing, making it more development-heavy. JNCIA-DevOps, on the other hand, incorporates Python but focuses on how it’s used within the automation workflows of Junos devices.

3. Platform-Specific Knowledge DevNet covers APIs and tools relevant to Cisco’s ecosystem, such as DNA Center, Webex, Meraki, and Cisco NSO. JNCIA-DevOps is centered on the Junos OS and related tools like PyEZ and SLAX, making it ideal for environments relying heavily on Juniper equipment.

4. Use of APIs and Tools. Both certifications expect candidates to understand REST APIs, but Cisco also dives deeper into OAuth, webhooks, and third-party API integrations. Juniper focuses more on configuration retrieval and automation using Junos XML and NETCONF.

5. Career Paths Cisco DevNet is well-suited for hybrid roles like network automation engineer, DevOps engineer, and software developer in network environments. JNCIA-DevOps is tailored more for network engineers transitioning to automation within Juniper-centric infrastructures.

The Role of Automation in Modern IT Infrastructure

Automation has become essential in today’s IT environments. It reduces errors, accelerates deployment, improves consistency, and increases network reliability. Both Cisco and Juniper recognize this shift and have designed their certifications to meet this demand.

Cisco emphasizes a developer-centric approach where automation is closely tied to application logic, APIs, and full-stack development. DevNet certifications promote integration between the application layer and infrastructure.

Juniper takes a more configuration-driven approach, optimizing its certifications for those managing the day-to-day operations of large-scale Junos networks. Here, the focus is on automating repetitive tasks and enabling scale across devices.

Regardless of the vendor, the demand for professionals who understand both network infrastructure and automation tools is growing rapidly. These professionals bridge the gap between traditional operations and agile, DevOps-style management.

The Importance of Foundational Knowledge

Both Cisco DevNet and JNCIA-DevOps assume some foundational understanding of networking and programming. While neither requires formal prerequisites, candidates will benefit from knowledge of:

• Basic networking concepts like TCP/IP, subnets, and routing

• Python scripting and CLI automation

• Understanding of data formats such as JSON and XML

• Familiarity with version control tools like Git

• Awareness of infrastructure automation tools (e.g., Ansible)

The ability to write scripts that interact with devices or APIs, parse data, and automate workflows is a common skill that both certifications aim to validate.

Which Certification Should You Choose?

The decision between Cisco DevNet Associate and JNCIA-DevOps depends largely on your current environment, career goals, and comfort level with programming.

Choose DevNet Associate if:

• You want a broader certification that includes software development and networking

• You work in or plan to work in a Cisco-driven environment

• You are comfortable with or eager to learn programming (especially Python)

• You want to explore a future path into a DevNet Specialist or a DevNet Professional

Choose JNCIA-DevOps if:

• You primarily work with Juniper Networks

• You are looking for a certification with more focus on automation within networking

• You are newer to software development and prefer a more gradual entry point

• You are looking for a focused credential to boost your automation skills in Junos environments

In both cases, hands-on experience and lab practice are key to success.

Deep Dive into Cisco DevNet Associate Certification—Structure, Topics, and Preparation Strategy

The Cisco DevNet Associate certification, represented by the 200-901 DEVASC exam, is Cisco’s flagship offering for professionals at the intersection of networking and software development. This part explores the core components of the DevNet Associate exam, its structure, topic breakdown, and how to effectively prepare for it using a hands-on, structured approach.

Understanding the Purpose of DevNet Associate

As enterprises evolve into digital-first organizations, traditional network roles are also transforming. Engineers are now expected to manage infrastructure using code, interact with APIs, and deploy scalable applications across hybrid environments. The Cisco DevNet Associate exam validates your ability to build and maintain applications that run on Cisco platforms while automating network workflows using modern development tools and techniques.

This certification serves as the foundation for the broader Cisco DevNet certification track, which includes specialist, professional, and expert-level paths. It is suitable for developers, DevOps engineers, automation specialists, and networking professionals who are expanding their skill sets to include programmability and automation.

Exam Format and Logistics

• Exam Code: 200-901 DEVASC

• Duration: 120 minutes

• Number of Questions: Typically 95–105

• Format: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and simulation-based questions

• Passing Score: Cisco does not publicly disclose the passing score, but it’s estimated to be around 825 out of 1000

• Cost: USD 300

• Recertification: Every three years

There are no formal prerequisites for the exam, making it accessible to anyone interested in network programmability. However, having some experience with Python programming, basic networking concepts, and working knowledge of Cisco platforms is highly recommended.

Core Domains of the DevNet Associate Exam

The 200-901 DEVASC exam is divided into six major domains. Each domain is weighted differently and reflects a core competency expected of a DevNet Associate.

1. Software Development and Design (15%)

This domain focuses on software engineering principles that form the foundation of automated infrastructure and applications.

Key topics include:

• Understanding software development methodologies (Agile, waterfall)

• Version control with Git

• Common data formats like JSON and XML

• Test-driven development and code quality

• Dependency management and refactoring

Candidates are expected to understand how software is structured, how to manage source code, and how to test and package applications. This ensures a baseline understanding of development workflows that integrate with network automation.

2. Understanding and Using APIs (20%)

APIs are at the core of automation. This domain tests your ability to interact with RESTful APIs and handle data exchanges.

Topics include:

• Making API calls (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE)

• Understanding HTTP status codes and headers

• Consuming APIs using Python scripts

• Handling authentication methods like OAuth2 and tokens

• Working with API documentation (OpenAPI/Swagger)

Hands-on practice using tools like Postman and Python’s requests library will help you master this area. It’s important to not only read API documentation but to build scripts that consume APIs and interpret the results.

3. Cisco Platforms and Development (17%)

This section focuses on Cisco’s programmable platforms and how to use APIs to interact with them.

Platforms covered include:

• Cisco DNA Center

• Cisco Meraki Dashboard

• Cisco Webex Teams and Meetings

• Cisco Unified Communications

• Cisco IOS XE and embedded APIs

You’ll need to understand how to query device status, apply configurations, and automate workflows across these platforms using platform-specific APIs. Cisco’s DevNet Sandbox is a great place to get hands-on experience with these technologies.

4. Application Deployment and Security (15%)

DevNet engineers are expected to understand how applications are deployed and secured in cloud-native and on-prem environments.

Key concepts:

• Virtualization technologies (VMs vs containers)

• Basics of Docker and container images

• Kubernetes orchestration fundamentals

• Application hosting environments (public cloud, on-prem, hybrid)

• Security principles like HTTPS, VPNs, and authentication methods

Although the exam does not require deep knowledge of Kubernetes or cloud platforms, candidates should understand how containers are built and deployed and how applications are secured in transit and at rest.

5. Infrastructure and Automation (20%)

This domain covers network automation and configuration management using scripting and orchestration tools.

Topics include:

• Using Python scripts to automate network operations

• Working with configuration management tools (e.g., Ansible)

• Automating CLI interactions

• Data models such as YANG

• Model-driven programmability (NETCONF, RESTCONF)

You should be comfortable automating routine tasks such as configuring devices, gathering operational data, and deploying configurations across multiple systems. Knowing when to use different automation methods is key.

6. Network Fundamentals (13%)

Although this is a developer-focused certification, basic networking knowledge is still necessary.

Topics include:

• OSI model

• IP addressing and subnetting

• Network protocols (ARP, DNS, DHCP)

• Routing and switching basics

• Network troubleshooting tools (ping, traceroute, nslookup)

This section ensures that developers and automation professionals understand the networks their applications run on. You should be able to read a network topology, troubleshoot connectivity, and interpret routing behavior.

Hands-On Preparation Strategy

While studying theory is important, practical experience is what sets successful candidates apart. The best way to prepare for the DevNet Associate exam is by following a structured hands-on study plan.

1. Cisco DevNet Learning Portal

Cisco offers free online learning modules that align with the DEVASC blueprint. These modules are interactive and include video tutorials, labs, and quizzes. Topics range from Python fundamentals to working with Cisco APIs.

Use this portal to structure your study sessions around each domain. Begin with software development basics and move toward more advanced topics like API integrations and automation workflows.

2. Python Practice

Python is central to the DevNet exam. You should be able to write scripts that:

• Parse and manipulate JSON and XML data

• Perform API calls and handle responses

• Automate device configurations using CLI commands or APIs

• Use Python libraries like requests, json, and os

If you’re new to Python, start with online courses that focus on networking or DevOps automation. Write small scripts daily and gradually build toward more complex automation tasks.

3. API Testing with Postman and Python

Learn to use Postman to make API calls and examine responses. Then, replicate the same calls in Python. For example, retrieve a list of network devices from Cisco DNA Center’s API and display the device statuses in a formatted output.

Understanding the structure of REST APIs, how to pass headers, manage authentication, and interpret response codes is a core skill that appears throughout the exam.

4. Build a Lab Environment

Set up a virtual lab using Cisco’s DevNet Sandbox, which offers pre-configured environments for:

• Cisco DNA Center

• Meraki APIs

• Webex integrations

• Cisco NSO and IOS XE

Use these sandboxes to write and test scripts, interact with APIs, and simulate real-world scenarios.

5. Version Control with Git

You’ll be expected to understand Git basics such as:

• Cloning repositories

• Making commits and pushing changes

• Merging branches

• Resolving conflicts

Practice using GitHub or GitLab to host your code and collaborate on small projects. Understanding how to manage code in a shared environment is critical in automation teams.

6. Container Fundamentals

Install Docker on your local machine and build basic containerized applications. Understand how to:

• Write a Dockerfile

• Build and run a container

• Use images from Docker Hub

• Understand container networking and volumes

This knowledge supports questions on application deployment and hosting environments.

Effective Study Techniques

1. Follow the official Cisco exam blueprint and checklist

2. Break topics into weekly study goals

3. Practice coding and configuration tasks daily

4. Review sample code snippets and scripts shared on Cisco DevNet forums

5. Join study groups or online communities for support

6. Watch walkthrough videos for labs and configuration demos

7. Test your understanding with short quizzes or flashcards after each topic

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Skipping software development concepts and jumping straight into networking

• Overlooking Git or thinking that version control isn’t relevant

• Memorizing commands without understanding their function

• Underestimating the importance of application deployment and security

• Ignoring hands-on labs in favor of only reading theory

In-Depth Guide to Juniper JNCIA-DevOps Certification—Focus, Tools, and Preparation Strategy

The Juniper JNCIA-DevOps certification (JN0-220) is designed to equip network engineers and DevOps professionals with the skills to automate, configure, and manage network operations within Junos-based environments. This part of the guide focuses on understanding the structure of the JNCIA-DevOps exam, the tools and technologies it covers, and how to effectively prepare using hands-on methods tailored to the Juniper ecosystem.

Introduction to JNCIA-DevOps

As networks grow in complexity and scale, automation has become a necessity rather than a luxury. Juniper Networks has recognized this need by offering the JNCIA-DevOps certification, which validates foundational knowledge of DevOps principles as applied to Junos OS. Unlike broader certifications, JNCIA-DevOps is tightly focused on Juniper platforms, making it ideal for professionals working in environments built around Junos-based devices.

This certification emphasizes automation using native Junos tools and widely used frameworks like Ansible and Python’s PyEZ. It is suitable for:

• Network engineers transitioning to DevOps roles

• Automation specialists in Juniper-powered data centers or service providers

• Junior DevOps professionals managing infrastructure-as-code environments

Exam Format and Details

• Exam Code: JN0-220

• Duration: 90 minutes

• Number of Questions: Approximately 65

• Format: Multiple-choice and scenario-based questions

• Cost: USD 200

• Recertification: Every three years

• Recommended Experience: Familiarity with Junos OS and basic scripting (Python, Ansible)

There are no prerequisites, but candidates benefit greatly from previous exposure to Junos-based devices and network automation workflows.

Core Domains of the JNCIA-DevOps Exam

The JNCIA-DevOps exam is structured around several key topics that align with real-world automation tasks. While less broad than the Cisco DevNet exam, it offers deep and practical knowledge relevant to Junos environments.

1. Junos Automation Stack and Architecture

This section tests your knowledge of the Junos OS automation model. Juniper’s approach includes:

• Junoscript and SLAX scripting

• Event automation using commit and op scripts

• The use of XML and JSON in operational output

• How Junos supports event-driven automation via system event scripts

Understanding the layered architecture—CLI, XML API, and NETCONF—is key to comprehending how Junos enables automated workflows.

2. Data Serialization Formats: XML, JSON, YAML

Modern automation tools rely heavily on structured data formats. The exam requires you to distinguish between and work with

• XML: Extensively used in Junos configuration and responses

• JSON: Often used with APIs and data processing scripts

• YAML: Common in Ansible playbooks and configuration files

You should be comfortable interpreting and creating simple files in these formats, understanding hierarchies, and using them in automation scenarios.

3. Network Automation Tools: Ansible, Python, PyEZ

The practical application of automation is a key focus area. Candidates must demonstrate:

• Understanding of Ansible’s architecture, modules, and playbooks

• Writing and executing Python scripts using the PyEZ library

• Collecting device facts and configuration using Ansible and PyEZ

• Automating configuration deployment across multiple Junos devices

PyEZ is Juniper’s Python library for device management. You’ll need to know how to establish a connection, retrieve device info, and push configuration using this tool.

4. Remote Procedure Calls and Junos APIs: REST, NETCONF

This section assesses your ability to interact with Juniper devices through programmatic interfaces:

• Using RESTful APIs to query device state

• Sending XML-formatted RPCs using NETCONF

• Understanding the RPC model and how to construct calls

• Working with operational and configuration RPCs

This includes interpreting responses and using API endpoints effectively. Practical experience in sending API requests and parsing responses is essential for success in this domain.

5. Version Control and DevOps Principles

Version control is essential in any DevOps role. JNCIA-DevOps includes topics on:

• Basic Git commands (clone, commit, push, pull)

• Using version control to manage configuration templates and scripts

• Benefits of collaborative configuration management

• Concepts like CI/CD, infrastructure as code, and automation pipelines

This section ensures that candidates understand not only the technical skills but also the cultural and procedural changes DevOps introduces to network operations.

Preparation Strategy for JNCIA-DevOps

While the JNCIA-DevOps certification is more specialized than Cisco DevNet, it still requires disciplined and structured preparation. Here is a step-by-step approach to mastering the exam content.

1. Study the Official Exam Objectives

Start by downloading the official exam blueprint from Juniper’s certification site. The blueprint outlines the exact topics you’ll be tested on and helps you identify strengths and weaknesses. Divide topics into categories:

• Beginner: YAML, basic Git, XML formatting

• Intermediate: Ansible playbooks, REST API interaction

• Advanced: Writing commit scripts, using NETCONF with Junos

This classification helps in allocating your time efficiently.

2. Hands-On Practice with Junos Devices

Experience with real or simulated Junos devices is critical. Use one of the following options:

• Juniper vLabs (free cloud-based lab environment)

• EVE-NG or GNS3 with Junos images

• Juniper’s virtual SRX or vMX routers in a local hypervisor

Practice activities should include:

• Running Python scripts to gather interface statistics

• Writing Ansible playbooks to push the configuration

• Sending REST calls to retrieve operational data

• Parsing XML output from CLI commands

Set up various lab scenarios to simulate device provisioning, configuration backup, and system monitoring.

3. Learn and Use PyEZ

Juniper’s PyEZ library is central to the automation workflow in Junos environments. You should:

• Install and configure PyEZ on your local machine

• Write Python scripts to connect to Junos devices

• Use RPCs to retrieve data and apply configurations

• Understand exception handling and logging in PyEZ scripts

Examples of tasks include pulling the interface table, rebooting a device remotely, and deploying a configuration snippet to multiple routers.

4. Master Ansible for Junos

Ansible is a declarative automation tool that integrates well with Junos devices using junos_* modules. Key practice points include:

• Installing the Juniper.Junos Ansible collection

• Writing Ansible playbooks to update interface descriptions

• Executing ad hoc commands with ansible-playbook

• Managing device inventory and grouping with YAML

Make sure you can run playbooks, interpret output, and debug errors. Understanding the structure of the playbooks and variables is critical.

5. Work with XML, JSON, and YAML

Structured data handling is tested in the exam and is necessary for writing automation scripts. You should:

• Create and validate simple YAML and JSON files

• Parse XML from Junos CLI or API responses

• Use Python to transform and manipulate JSON data

• Work with YAML in Ansible playbooks

Visualizing the hierarchy and nesting of data is essential for understanding both configuration files and device responses.

6. Explore Junos Automation Tools

Explore and practice with Junos’ native automation features:

• Event scripts triggered by specific network conditions

• Commit scripts to enforce configuration policies

• SLAX scripting (optional but beneficial for more advanced scenarios)

Although SLAX is being phased out in favor of Python, familiarity with its logic and syntax can help you better understand older automation implementations in production networks.

Recommended Tools and Resources

To prepare effectively, you’ll need a set of tools and platforms that simulate real-world usage:

• Juniper vLabs for hands-on device interaction

• PyCharm or VS Code for writing Python scripts

• Postman for testing API endpoints

• Git and GitHub for version control practice

• YAML/JSON linters to validate your automation templates

Documentation from Juniper is also very detailed and helpful. Use the Junos OS Automation Guide and the PyEZ documentation as your technical references.

Study Timeline Example (8 Weeks)

• Week 1–2: Study XML/JSON/YAML; practice file creation and parsing

• Week 3: Learn Git basics and version control workflows

• Week 4: Practice Ansible playbooks and run lab-based automation tasks

• Week 5: Write and debug Python scripts using PyEZ

• Week 6: Explore REST API and NETCONF interaction with Junos

• Week 7: Focus on automation architecture and commit scripts

• Week 8: Review, take mock exams, and reinforce weak areas

Consistency is key. Study 1–2 hours per day with a strong focus on applying what you learn in a lab environment.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Over-reliance on reading instead of practicing—automation requires doing, not just knowing

2. Skipping structured data formats—YAML and JSON errors are common pitfalls in configuration

3. Neglecting Ansible syntax—Missed colons or indentation issues can break a playbook

4. Avoiding version control—understanding Git is not optional in modern DevOps workflows

5. Memorizing PyEZ syntax without knowing what each function does

Practice with use-case-driven examples helps you move beyond memorization to true problem-solving skills.

Comparing Cisco DevNet Associate and Juniper JNCIA-DevOps—Difficulty, Career Value, and Choosing the Right Path

Now that we’ve explored the structure, topics, and preparation strategies for both the Cisco DevNet Associate and Juniper JNCIA-DevOps certifications, this final part focuses on comparing the two across several key dimensions. This comparison will help you decide which certification path better aligns with your goals, experience, and the demands of your professional environment.

Breadth and Depth of Knowledge Required

When evaluating difficulty, one of the first distinctions between Cisco DevNet Associate and Juniper JNCIA-DevOps is the scope of topics each exam covers. While both certifications serve as entry points to network automation and DevOps principles, they do so with differing emphases.

Cisco DevNet Associate:

• Covers a wide range of subjects beyond traditional networking

• Includes Python programming, application design, APIs, infrastructure automation, cloud computing, container orchestration, and Cisco-specific tools

• Designed to test hybrid knowledge across software development and infrastructure domains

Juniper JNCIA-DevOps:

• More focused in scope, concentrating on automation within Junos OS environments

• Emphasizes tools such as Ansible, PyEZ, and NETCONF for automating network tasks

• Requires understanding of XML, YAML, JSON, and interaction with Juniper’s APIs

The Cisco DevNet exam requires a broader understanding of both application-layer development and network fundamentals. This wider scope can make the DevNet Associate feel more difficult, especially for candidates who lack prior software development experience.

JNCIA-DevOps, while still challenging, remains tightly aligned with network automation use cases and has fewer questions on application development or cloud deployment models. This narrower focus can make the exam more approachable for network engineers without a programming background.

Programming Requirements

Programming is a critical differentiator between these certifications. Both demand some familiarity with automation tools and scripting, but the depth of coding knowledge expected varies.

Cisco DevNet Associate:

• Requires a moderate to advanced understanding of Python

• Includes tasks like writing scripts to consume REST APIs, handling JSON data, and using Python libraries for automation

• Expects familiarity with software design patterns and test-driven development

Juniper JNCIA-DevOps:

• Requires basic Python scripting skills

• Focuses on using Python for device communication via PyEZ, not on building full applications

• No in-depth software design questions are involved

For someone with prior experience in development, Cisco DevNet will feel more natural and may even offer an opportunity to leverage existing knowledge in a networking context. For those from a traditional networking background, JNCIA-DevOps serves as a more gradual transition into automation.

Tools and Ecosystem Familiarity

Another key factor when choosing between these certifications is the vendor ecosystem you operate in.

Cisco DevNet Associate:

• Targets professionals working with Cisco platforms such as DNA Center, Webex, Meraki, and Cisco IOS XE

• Emphasizes interaction with Cisco’s extensive set of APIs

• Prepares candidates for roles in environments that heavily use Cisco gear and services

Juniper JNCIA-DevOps:

• Designed for engineers working with Juniper routers, switches, and security appliances

• Offers deep familiarity with Junos OS and Juniper’s automation stack

• Best suited for organizations with a significant Juniper footprint

Choosing the certification that matches the tools and platforms used in your current or target job environment is a practical way to increase immediate career relevance and impact.

Real-World Application and Job Roles

Both certifications are designed to validate practical skills that can be applied directly in the workplace. The key difference lies in the type of roles they best prepare you for.

DevNet Associate is ideal for:

• Network Automation Engineers

• DevOps Engineers with networking responsibilities

• Cloud Developers with an interest in programmable infrastructure

• System Integrators working with Cisco APIs and services

• Software Developers entering infrastructure development roles

JNCIA-DevOps is best suited for:

• Network Engineers in Juniper environments seeking automation skills

• Automation Engineers managing Junos device configurations

• IT professionals working in ISPs or enterprises with Juniper infrastructure

• Junior DevOps specialists looking to branch into infrastructure as code

If your goal is to work in a broader DevOps or cloud-native environment with mixed vendors, the DevNet Associate offers greater flexibility. If you work in a Juniper-based organization or focus primarily on network operations, JNCIA-DevOps delivers more targeted value.

Exam Experience and Time Investment

The study process and exam-taking experience differ due to the complexity and range of each certification.

DevNet Associate:

• 120-minute exam with more than 95 questions

Final Thoughts

As organizations transition toward agile, scalable, and software-defined infrastructures, the distinction between traditional networking and software development continues to blur. The professionals who succeed in this new landscape are those who learn to automate, script, and build programmable systems. Certifications like Cisco DevNet Associate and Juniper JNCIA-DevOps offer structured, practical pathways to develop these in-demand skills.

The Cisco DevNet Associate certification represents a broader and more development-heavy approach. It prepares individuals to interact with Cisco platforms through APIs, build automation workflows, and work across application development, deployment, and infrastructure management. For those who aim to work in cloud-native environments, integrate with CI/CD pipelines, or take on DevOps roles with a strong Cisco presence, this certification opens many doors.

In contrast, the Juniper JNCIA-DevOps certification is narrower in focus but more grounded in infrastructure-level automation. It targets engineers who want to automate and manage Junos-based devices using tools like Ansible and Python. The certification avoids deep dives into software development, making it ideal for network professionals who are beginning their journey into automation or working exclusively with Juniper systems.

Both certifications validate practical knowledge. They emphasize real-world tools, promote automation best practices, and support the industry’s shift away from manual, error-prone operations. Choosing between them depends on your current role, the technology stack you work with, and your long-term career goals.

If you are already comfortable with Python and working across layers of infrastructure and software, Cisco DevNet Associate offers a comprehensive route that blends software development with networking. If you prefer a more network-centric starting point and want to build up automation skills within a specific vendor ecosystem, Juniper JNCIA-DevOps is a focused and valuable option.

Both paths prepare you for the future of networking, where automation, programmability, and agility are no longer optional—they are essential. Whichever certification you choose, your willingness to adapt and learn will ensure that you stay competitive, relevant, and well-positioned in the modern IT world.