Selecting the Right Firewall: Cisco ASA vs Palo Alto Networks Explained

Practice Exams:

View All

Cisco

Selecting the Right Firewall: Cisco ASA vs Palo Alto Networks Explained

Understanding the Foundation of Cisco’s Modern Certification Framework

Introduction to Cisco’s Evolving Certification Strategy

The rapid shift in IT infrastructure—from hardware-centric networks to software-defined environments—has fundamentally transformed the expectations placed on network professionals. In response to these sweeping changes, Cisco restructured its certification programs starting in 2020. This restructuring was not a mere rebranding; it represented a foundational reimagining of how certifications align with current technologies, industry roles, and future career paths.

This part introduces the architecture of the modern Cisco certification framework. We’ll examine why the change was necessary, how it has redefined career progression, and what new opportunities it opens for networking professionals at all levels.

Why Cisco Modernized Its Certifications

Before 2020, Cisco’s certification system was fragmented and often overlapping. Candidates had to choose from distinct tracks such as Routing and Switching, Security, Wireless, and Collaboration, each with its version of CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE. This model lacked flexibility, often required repetitive study, and made it difficult to pivot between specializations or adapt to changing job demands.

With the rise of hybrid cloud deployments, network automation, and software-defined networks, the lines between job roles began to blur. Professionals needed to know not only how to configure devices but also how to automate them, integrate them with APIs, and secure them across distributed environments. Cisco’s new model simplifies the certification paths and embraces this multidisciplinary demand.

By consolidating the associate level into a single certification and creating a modular system at the professional and expert levels, Cisco now allows candidates to build broad foundational skills and layer in specialization only when needed. This helps ensure that professionals can evolve as technology does.

Overview of the New Cisco Certification Levels

Cisco’s modern framework is structured into five clearly defined levels of expertise. Each level reflects a progressive mastery of networking principles and their application in real-world scenarios.

Entry Level (Retired CCENT)

The Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) was previously used as a stepping stone to the CCNA. However, it has been retired, and Cisco now encourages candidates to begin their journey directly with the consolidated CCNA certification. The removal of this level simplifies the entry path and places more emphasis on a comprehensive associate-level foundation.

Associate Level: The New CCNA

The associate level is now represented by a single, consolidated certification: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). This change merges several specialized CCNA tracks into one broader exam, known officially as CCNA 200-301.

The scope of the new CCNA is both wide and essential. It includes:

Network fundamentals
Network access
IP connectivity
IP services
Security fundamentals
Automation and programmability

This coverage is a direct reflection of what IT professionals are expected to understand in today’s job roles. With just one exam, candidates can validate their readiness for entry-level network engineer roles without committing prematurely to a particular specialization.

The CCNA is intended for anyone starting in the networking world—whether transitioning from a help desk role, entering from academia, or shifting careers entirely. Its breadth gives learners a taste of all major aspects of modern networking, including automation, which is now a critical industry requirement.

Professional Level: CCNP and Its Modular Design

At the professional tier, Cisco has transformed the structure into a two-part system: a required core exam and a concentration exam of the candidate’s choice. This model is used across all five CCNP domains:

CCNP Enterprise
CCNP Security
CCNP Data Center
CCNP Collaboration
CCNP Service Provider

The core exam serves as both the foundation of the domain and the prerequisite for the expert-level CCIE. It ensures that professionals understand the essential concepts of their chosen area. The concentration exam then allows them to specialize, depending on their job role or career goals.

For example, a CCNP Enterprise candidate may choose a concentration in SD-WAN design, wireless networking, or enterprise automation. This format provides immense flexibility. Professionals can focus on specific areas without having to repeat common material across multiple exams.

This structure also eliminates redundancies from the previous model, where candidates had to take three or more exams to achieve a CCNP. With only two required, the certification becomes more accessible without sacrificing technical depth.

Expert Level: CCIE Aligned with Industry Practice

The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) remains the pinnacle of technical networking certifications. Under the new system, the path to earning a CCIE certification begins with the same core exam required for the CCNP in that domain. This means candidates can prepare once for both professional and expert-level certification, reducing duplication and increasing efficiency.

After passing the core exam, the candidate must complete a rigorous eight-hour lab exam that evaluates their ability to design, deploy, and troubleshoot complex enterprise networks. These hands-on scenarios include real-world components such as automation workflows, network assurance, and integration with cloud environments.

This evolution brings the CCIE in line with today’s enterprise challenges. Candidates are no longer judged solely on theoretical knowledge or device configuration—they must also demonstrate practical skills and the ability to operate within dynamic, automated networks.

Architect Level: CCAr for Strategic Design Experts

The Cisco Certified Architect (CCAr) remains the top-tier credential in Cisco’s certification pyramid. While it has seen few changes in structure, its relevance has grown. CCAr is designed for those who shape large-scale network strategies and build infrastructure blueprints aligned with business goals.

Unlike other certifications, CCAr involves a board review process where candidates present real-world design proposals to a panel of Cisco experts. It requires not only technical expertise but also business acumen and the ability to align IT architecture with organizational strategy.

This certification is best suited for principal engineers, senior architects, and consultants who oversee enterprise network transformations.

How the New Framework Benefits IT Professionals

Cisco’s modern certification framework brings several advantages to aspiring and current professionals:

Simplified Paths: By consolidating the CCNA into a single certification, Cisco reduces confusion for beginners and eliminates redundant topics.
Greater Flexibility: With modularity at the CCNP and CCIE levels, professionals can customize their learning based on industry demand or personal interests.
Improved Relevance: The inclusion of programmability, cloud, and automation ensures that certifications remain relevant to current and future job roles.
Faster Career Progression: With fewer exams needed per level and overlapping core exams between CCNP and CCIE, professionals can progress more efficiently.
Stronger Foundational Knowledge: The unified CCNA ensures that all candidates understand essential networking concepts before diving into advanced material.
Cross-Domain Recognition: The shared knowledge base and core exams allow professionals to switch domains or specialize further without starting from scratch.

This restructured model aligns better with job roles in modern IT departments. Professionals are no longer limited by rigid tracks and can grow their careers organically by stacking certifications across enterprise, data center, security, collaboration, and development.

A Closer Look at Recertification Policies

To ensure professionals remain up to date, all Cisco certifications now share a uniform three-year validity. Candidates have several options for recertification, including

Retaking any current-level exam
Taking a higher-level exam in the same track
Earning credits through structured continuing education

The continuing education option introduces flexibility. Professionals can now attend official training, complete learning modules, or participate in Cisco events to accumulate credits toward recertification. This allows them to stay active in their certification without the pressure of retesting every cycle.

This approach encourages lifelong learning and allows professionals to keep their knowledge current while exploring emerging technologies like network analytics, cloud-native infrastructure, and secure access service edge (SASE).

Hands-On Experience: Still Critical for Success

Though the certification process has been streamlined, one fact remains unchanged: practical experience is crucial for success. Cisco’s exams, especially at the CCNP and CCIE levels, test not only knowledge but also the ability to apply that knowledge under real-world conditions.

This makes hands-on practice indispensable. Candidates are encouraged to work with emulators and simulators like Cisco Packet Tracer, GNS3, or Cisco Modeling Labs to build lab environments. Setting up real or virtual labs provides an opportunity to experiment with routing protocols, configure VPNs, simulate security incidents, and explore automation using scripting tools.

Real-world practice builds muscle memory, helps troubleshoot issues faster, and reinforces conceptual understanding—all of which are vital for passing the exams and succeeding on the job.

Exploring the Cisco DevNet Certification Path

The Emergence of Software-Defined Networking Roles

The networking world has evolved far beyond the command-line configuration of routers and switches. Today’s IT environments rely heavily on programmable infrastructure, cloud-native operations, and integrated DevOps workflows. Cisco responded to this shift by introducing an entirely new certification path under the DevNet banner, designed specifically for professionals working at the intersection of network engineering and software development.

The DevNet certification track recognizes the growing demand for network engineers who can write code, interact with APIs, and automate large-scale deployments. This change is more than a nod to current trends—it is a foundational shift in how infrastructure is built, managed, and secured in the digital age.

What is Cisco DevNet?

Cisco DevNet is both a developer program and a certification pathway. It empowers IT professionals, developers, and automation engineers to build applications and automation workflows that interface with Cisco platforms such as DNA Center, Meraki, ACI, and Webex. DevNet was launched to bridge the divide between traditional infrastructure management and modern software practices.

The DevNet certification program mirrors Cisco’s existing structure with associate, professional, specialist, and expert levels. These certifications emphasize skills in programming, APIs, infrastructure as code, and automation frameworks, allowing network professionals to gain fluency in software development and automation within Cisco environments.

Why DevNet Matters in Modern IT

In contemporary enterprise environments, static network configurations are insufficient. Applications are now expected to scale dynamically, recover gracefully from failures, and deploy rapidly across multicloud and edge environments. These expectations can only be met when the network infrastructure itself is programmable.

DevNet certifications empower professionals to:

Automate repetitive and error-prone configuration tasks
Develop tools and scripts to monitor, manage, and modify infrastructure
Integrate networking into CI/CD pipelines
Interface directly with Cisco’s APIs for programmatic control
Ensure security and compliance through automated policy enforcement

These abilities are not exclusive to developers. Network engineers with DevNet credentials are increasingly called upon to function in DevOps, NetOps, and SecOps roles, blending infrastructure management with code-level logic.

The DevNet Certification Levels

Cisco has aligned DevNet with the traditional structure of its certification paths, offering credentials at multiple levels:

DevNet Associate
DevNet Professional
DevNet Specialist
DevNet Expert

Each level builds on the previous, allowing professionals to progress from basic scripting knowledge to advanced automation and software integration capabilities.

DevNet Associate: 200-901 DEVASC

The DevNet Associate certification is the ideal entry point for those new to network programmability. The 200-901 DEVASC exam covers essential concepts in both software development and networking, striking a balance that appeals to beginners from either domain.

Key topics in the DevNet Associate include:

Software development fundamentals (data formats like JSON and XML, version control with Git)
Cisco platform APIs (DNA Center, Meraki, Webex)
RESTful API calls and authentication
Infrastructure as code principles
Network fundamentals and protocol behavior
Secure automation practices

The associate-level certification is designed to build a solid understanding of how networks and software interact. It is especially useful for professionals looking to integrate automation into their existing roles or move into network development positions.

Unlike traditional network certifications, DevNet Associate is not purely theoretical. It requires candidates to understand practical workflows, such as creating Python scripts to retrieve telemetry data or using Postman to test Cisco APIs.

DevNet Professional: 350-901 DEVCOR and Specializations

At the professional level, the DevNet path mirrors the modular structure of CCNP. To earn the DevNet Professional credential, candidates must pass two exams:

350-901 DEVCOR (core exam)
One concentration exam of their choice

The DEVCOR exam covers broad areas of software development in networked environments, including

Application design and development practices
Secure coding and automation strategies
Network and infrastructure APIs
Deployment models and DevOps pipelines
Version control, containers, and microservices
Monitoring, testing, and troubleshooting automation

The concentration exams allow for specialization in specific technologies or domains. Candidates can choose based on their job roles or interests, with options such as:

Enterprise network automation
Data center automation
Collaboration API development
Security automation
DevOps integration and practices
Webex API workflows

This format allows professionals to build depth in a focused area while maintaining broad competence in automation and development principles.

DevNet Specialist Certifications

DevNet Specialist certifications can be earned by passing any one of the DevNet concentration exams. These credentials offer a targeted way to validate expertise without committing to the full professional-level certification. They are ideal for professionals who need deep knowledge in a single domain, such as security automation or cloud collaboration platforms.

These certifications are particularly valuable for teams managing domain-specific platforms. For example, a network security team may have members pursuing the Security Automation Specialist role to streamline operations using programmable policies and integrations.

DevNet Expert: The New Apex

Cisco has recently introduced the DevNet Expert certification, marking the top tier of the DevNet path. This credential reflects mastery of network automation, software integration, and programmable infrastructure design.

To earn the DevNet Expert, candidates must pass:

The 350-901 DEVCOR exam
A rigorous, hands-on lab exam that validates full-stack automation expertise

The lab exam tests a candidate’s ability to architect, build, secure, and troubleshoot programmable infrastructures across multiple Cisco platforms using tools such as Python, REST APIs, Ansible, and container orchestration.

DevNet Expert is designed for seasoned professionals who lead automation strategy in their organizations. It aligns with roles such as DevOps engineer, network SRE, infrastructure developer, and cloud-native platform specialist.

DevNet vs Traditional Cisco Paths: A Complementary Approach

Cisco designed DevNet to complement, not replace, traditional certifications. Combining traditional network knowledge (CCNA, CCNP) with DevNet skills creates an exceptionally versatile professional profile.

For example:

A candidate may begin with CCNA to build core network configuration and troubleshooting skills.
They can then pursue the DevNet Associate to learn scripting and API usage.
This can be followed by CCNP Enterprise for deep architectural understanding and then DevNet Professional to automate it.

This layered learning path reflects how modern jobs are structured. Network engineers are increasingly expected to deploy infrastructure as code, monitor using telemetry, and collaborate with software teams.

Organizations are now hiring hybrid roles that demand both deep infrastructure experience and automation fluency. These include titles like

Network Automation Engineer
Site Reliability Engineer (with network emphasis)
Cloud Network Engineer
NetDevOps Engineer

DevNet Skills in the Real World

The skills acquired through DevNet are immediately applicable in practical job settings. Professionals with DevNet certifications are proficient in:

Writing Python scripts to configure interfaces, create VLANs, or deploy ACLs across multiple devices
Using REST APIs to automate network provisioning in Cisco DNA Center or Meraki environments
Building CI/CD pipelines for infrastructure deployments using Jenkins or GitHub Actions
Creating real-time monitoring dashboards by integrating with platforms like Prometheus or Grafana
Automating policy enforcement through tools like Ansible and Terraform

These capabilities not only reduce operational overhead but also enhance network reliability and agility. Organizations benefit from faster deployments, fewer errors, and scalable solutions—all driven by DevNet-trained professionals.

Building a Future-Ready Certification Strategy

Cisco encourages professionals to see certifications as components of a larger strategy. The DevNet track provides powerful tools for anyone looking to transition into automation-centric roles or enhance their traditional networking skills with software capabilities.

A recommended blended certification path may include

CCNA: Foundational knowledge of network operations and troubleshooting
DevNet Associate: Basic scripting and API interaction
CCNP Enterprise: Advanced networking architecture and design
DevNet Professional: Full-stack automation and infrastructure-as-code implementation

This strategy not only opens up more job opportunities but also prepares professionals for leadership roles in automation initiatives. As networks continue to evolve, those who can manage both the physical and programmable layers will be the most valued.

Decoding the Modern CCNP Certification Framework

Introduction to the Redesigned CCNP Model

The professional tier in Cisco’s certification ecosystem has always been a pivotal milestone for networking professionals. Formerly composed of multiple rigid tracks, each requiring three or more exams, the CCNP was valuable but burdensome. Recognizing the need for flexibility, Cisco reimagined this level to better reflect real-world job roles and technological convergence.

The updated CCNP framework now follows a streamlined, two-exam model that empowers professionals to specialize while maintaining a broad understanding of their domain. With one required core exam and one elective concentration exam, this modular approach simplifies the certification process, saves time, and better aligns with enterprise needs in the era of cloud computing, automation, and hybrid infrastructure.

This section unpacks each CCNP track, outlines its core and concentration components, and explores how candidates can align certification with career ambitions.

The Structure of Modern CCNP Certifications

Each CCNP certification now consists of:

One core exam: a comprehensive assessment of foundational and advanced knowledge in the domain.
One concentration exam: a focused assessment on a specialized skill area chosen by the candidate.

The modular structure applies across all CCNP categories. The five active CCNP tracks are

CCNP Enterprise
CCNP Security
CCNP Data Center
CCNP Collaboration
CCNP Service Provider

This design means that a professional working in a complex enterprise environment might choose advanced routing, while another working in automation might pursue a concentration in infrastructure scripting. Both begin with the same core, but their specialization diverges to suit their roles.

This allows for more personalized and efficient certification journeys and reduces the need for multiple redundant exams that were previously required in legacy tracks.

CCNP Enterprise: The Core of Modern Networking

The CCNP Enterprise track is the most popular among the five. It focuses on high-performance enterprise networks, with emphasis on scalability, redundancy, and automation.

Core Exam: 350-401 ENCOR

This exam, titled “Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies,” is foundational for both CCNP and CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure certifications. It covers:

Dual-stack architecture (IPv4 and IPv6)
Virtualization techniques
Infrastructure services and security
Network assurance and monitoring
Automation with Python, REST APIs, and model-driven telemetry

This core exam ensures candidates understand the essential building blocks of enterprise networking in a modern, cloud-integrated world.

Concentration Options for CCNP Enterprise

Candidates must choose one of the following exams to complete their CCNP Enterprise certification:

300-410 ENARSI: Advanced routing technologies
300-415 ENSDWI: SD-WAN deployment and configuration
300-420 ENSLD: Enterprise network design principles
300-425 ENWLSD: Wireless network design
300-430 ENWLSI: Wireless implementation
300-435 ENAUTO: Enterprise network automation

Each concentration is targeted. For example, a candidate managing wireless infrastructure would benefit from ENWLSD or ENWLSI, while an automation-focused engineer would choose ENAUTO.

This track is ideal for network engineers, infrastructure specialists, and administrators managing distributed systems with hybrid deployments.

CCNP Security: The Defender’s Track

This certification validates expertise in securing infrastructure, devices, data, and applications.

Core Exam: 350-701 SCOR

The core exam is titled “Implementing and Operating Cisco Security Core Technologies.” It addresses:

Security infrastructure
Network access control and segmentation
Endpoint protection
Content and cloud security
Secure network access
Automation and programmability

The SCOR exam is a shared prerequisite for both CCNP Security and CCIE Security.

Concentration Options for CCNP Security

Candidates choose from specialized exams such as

300-710 SNCF: Firewalls using Cisco Firepower
300-715 SISE: Identity Services Engine (ISE)
300-720 SESA: Email security appliances
300-725 SWSA: Web security solutions
300-730 SVPN: Secure VPNs
300-735 SAUTO: Security automation and orchestration

This track is well-suited for security analysts, firewall administrators, identity engineers, and network defenders who manage enterprise-grade security environments.

CCNP Data Center: Orchestrating Cloud-Scale Infrastructure

This track caters to engineers and architects working in virtualized data centers, hyperconverged platforms, and cloud-integrated systems.

Core Exam: 350-601 DCCOR

The exam, “Implementing and Operating Cisco Data Center Core Technologies,” covers:

Network fabric design and virtualization
Compute platforms and storage networking
Automation using Python, REST APIs, and YANG models
Network assurance and telemetry
Security and cloud infrastructure integration

It is a critical exam for professionals working with Cisco Nexus switches, ACI fabrics, or UCS compute systems.

Concentration Options for CCNP Data Center

Candidates may choose from:

300-610 DCID: Data center design
300-615 DCIT: Troubleshooting data center infrastructure
300-620 DCACI: ACI implementation
300-625 DCSAN: Storage area networking
300-635 DCAUTO: Automation for data centers

This certification path is most relevant to engineers managing data center operations or deploying private and hybrid cloud environments.

CCNP Collaboration: Modern Communication Workflows

This track focuses on voice, video, messaging, and conferencing systems—especially those integrated into unified communications platforms like Cisco Unified Communications Manager and Webex.

Core Exam: 350-801 CLCOR

“Implementing Cisco Collaboration Core Technologies” focuses on:

Voice infrastructure and call control
Video infrastructure
Collaboration endpoints and codecs
Conferencing and messaging systems
Security and QoS
API-based integration and automation

Concentration Options for CCNP Collaboration

300-810 CLICA: Call control and mobility services
300-815 CLA CCM: Advanced call control mechanisms
300-820 CLCEI: Edge and cloud collaboration
300-825 CLCNF: Conferencing technologies
300-835 CLAUTO: Collaboration automation and APIs

This track is ideal for systems engineers, voice architects, and administrators of enterprise communication platforms.

CCNP Service Provider: Engineering Carrier-Grade Networks

This track serves professionals working for internet service providers, telecom companies, and backbone network operators.

Core Exam: 350-501 SPCOR

“Implementing and Operating Cisco Service Provider Network Core Technologies” includes

Core routing technologies (IS-IS, BGP, MPLS)
Service provider architecture
QoS and traffic engineering
VPNs and subscriber management
Automation frameworks and protocols

Concentration Options for CCNP Service Provider

300-510 SPRI: Advanced routing implementation
300-515 SPVI: VPN service implementation
300-535 SPAUTO: Service provider automation

It is tailored for engineers managing large-scale MPLS, VPN, and ISP-grade services and provides deep expertise in backbone and edge network configurations.

The Value of Modular Certification Paths

The new two-exam structure provides distinct advantages:

Customization: Candidates can choose the specialization most aligned with their work.
Efficiency: Fewer exams mean faster certification and lower costs.
Cross-certification alignment: Core exams also count toward CCIE prerequisites.
Targeted skills: Each concentration addresses specific technologies, allowing for rapid upskilling.
Job relevance: Certifications can be tailored to job titles or project requirements, making them more impactful on the ground.

This structure benefits not only individual learners but also employers, who can train teams in precise skill areas without redundant or unrelated certifications.

Recertification and Continuing Development

As with other levels, CCNP certifications are valid for three years. Recertification can be achieved by:

Passing any CCNP core or concentration exam again
Earning continuing education credits through Cisco’s learning programs
Passing a higher-level exam, such as a CCIE lab or another professional core exam

This flexibility ensures that professionals stay up to date with rapidly evolving technologies, while continuing education encourages exploration of emerging topics like zero-trust networking, SASE frameworks, or hybrid cloud interconnects.

Strategic Pathways Using CCNP

Professionals can build strategic learning paths depending on career goals. For instance:

An enterprise network engineer might pursue 350-401 ENCOR + 300-415 ENSDWI to specialize in SD-WAN.
A data center engineer may opt for 350-601 DCCOR + 300-620 DCACI for advanced ACI fabric knowledge.
A security specialist could choose 350-701 SCOR + 300-735 SAUTO to integrate automation into security operations.

These choices are not isolated. Professionals can earn multiple CCNP certifications by completing concentration exams in different domains. For example, someone who passes 350-701 SCOR and later takes 300-410 ENARSI will hold certifications in both security and enterprise networking.

Integrating Automation, DevOps, and Cloud into Cisco Career Paths

A Paradigm Shift in Infrastructure Management

Enterprise networks are no longer isolated, device-centric systems. They are dynamic, multi-domain platforms built to accommodate virtualization, cloud services, and continuous delivery models. Infrastructure is now expected to be programmable, scalable on demand, and deeply integrated into application development pipelines.

This shift demands a new kind of network professional—one who understands traditional configuration but is equally comfortable with scripting, API interaction, and automation platforms. Cisco’s reimagined certification ecosystem is built for this reality. It empowers professionals to manage next-generation networks by combining networking expertise with software and cloud integration skills.

This final part of the series explores how Cisco has woven automation, DevOps, and cloud-native tools into its certification tracks, enabling professionals to evolve alongside the technologies they support.

The Evolution of the Network Engineer Role

The historical role of the network engineer was rooted in static configuration. Switches and routers were manually set up using the CLI. Changes were often ticketed, approved, and implemented through time-consuming, repetitive tasks.

In today’s IT environments, that model is obsolete. Modern enterprises require:

Infrastructure as code, where network configurations are version-controlled
CI/CD pipelines for deploying infrastructure changes automatically
Scalable services provisioned through cloud orchestration tools
Programmable interfaces to enable application-level control of network resources
Real-time telemetry and observability through analytics and API endpoints

These demands have blurred the lines between network engineers, system administrators, and developers. Job titles such as Network Automation Engineer, DevOps Network Specialist, and Cloud Network Architect now reflect this convergence. Cisco’s certification strategy acknowledges these changes, helping candidates acquire skills that are no longer optional.

The Role of DevNet in Bridging Infrastructure and Software

As outlined in Part 2, the DevNet track was Cisco’s direct response to the emerging intersection of development and infrastructure. DevNet certifications emphasize API interaction, Python scripting, automation tools, containerization, and cloud integration.

The inclusion of DevNet in Cisco’s broader framework ensures that network professionals can build pipelines, automate deployments, and interact with platforms such as Cisco DNA Center, Meraki, and ACI through software.

Professionals now have the flexibility to blend DevNet certifications with traditional paths such as CCNA, CCNP, or even CCIE, creating a well-rounded skill set that covers both physical infrastructure and logical control.

For example, a candidate may follow this hybrid path:

CCNA for network fundamentals
DevNet Associate for basic scripting and automation
CCNP Enterprise for deep infrastructure expertise
DevNet Professional for full-stack automation

This approach equips the professional to design, deploy, and scale intelligent networks in agile, cloud-first environments.

Automation in Traditional Certifications

Cisco has not limited automation content to DevNet. Topics such as network programmability, configuration management, and telemetry are now integrated into exams at every level.

In the CCNA 200-301 exam, candidates are introduced to

RESTful APIs and HTTP operations
JSON data structures
Model-driven programmability (YANG and NETCONF)
Automation use cases using tools like Python

In the CCNP core exams, such as ENCOR and SCOR, automation topics are treated as essential skills, including

Automating routing and switching tasks
Interfacing with infrastructure through REST APIs
Using tools like Ansible for configuration management
Network verification using model-based telemetry

The CCIE lab exams also feature automation components, such as scripting tasks to configure dynamic policies, automate BGP peering, or collect performance data.

This widespread inclusion means that automation is no longer an optional skill—it is a baseline requirement for all certified professionals.

DevOps Integration: Beyond the CLI

DevOps is not just a set of tools—it is a cultural and operational shift that prioritizes collaboration between development and operations teams. It promotes continuous integration, testing, and delivery of infrastructure in the same way code is deployed.

Cisco’s certifications embrace DevOps principles by focusing on:

Version control systems such as Git
Automation servers like Jenkins
Containerization platforms such as Docker
Infrastructure orchestration using Ansible, Terraform, and Kubernetes
Continuous testing of infrastructure logic and deployment states

Candidates pursuing the DevNet Professional certification are tested on DevOps pipelines and must demonstrate the ability to write and test code, deploy configurations, and manage version-controlled scripts.

This tight alignment with DevOps tools enables certified professionals to function as part of multidisciplinary teams responsible for delivering secure, automated infrastructure as code.

Cloud Integration in Cisco Certifications

The rise of hybrid and multicloud environments has expanded the role of network professionals. Now, they are expected to manage not just on-premise infrastructure but also:

Virtual private clouds (VPCs)
Software-defined WAN (SD-WAN) overlays
Interconnectivity between data centers and cloud regions
Security for cloud-based applications and services
Cost optimization and observability in cloud infrastructure

Cisco’s certifications reflect this integration with content that covers:

SD-WAN architectures using Cisco vManage
Cloud-native telemetry and analytics
Policy enforcement in multi-tenant environments
Integration with AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud
Secure VPN and tunnel configuration between cloud regions

For instance, the ENCOR and SPCOR exams include topics on cloud connectivity and SD-WAN, while concentration exams such as ENSDWI and DCAUTO allow deep dives into deploying programmable cloud edge infrastructure.

This means candidates who once specialized in local area networks are now expected to manage transcontinental cloud interconnects and automate cloud-to-site failovers.

Tools That Support Cisco’s New Focus

To master these domains, professionals must develop hands-on experience with modern infrastructure tools, many of which are covered across Cisco’s training materials and lab environments.

Some commonly used tools include

Python: for scripting and automating workflows
Postman: for testing REST APIs and building collections
Ansible: for automating multi-device configuration
Docker: for containerizing network applications
Git: for managing configuration files and code repositories
Jenkins: for building CI/CD pipelines
Terraform: for provisioning infrastructure in code
Grafana and Prometheus: for network visualization and observability

Candidates are encouraged to build home labs or use Cisco’s modeling platforms to simulate hybrid network environments. These tools are directly applicable in real-world scenarios, from automating VLAN deployment to configuring thousands of access control lists using a single template.

Career Outcomes with Blended Certification Paths

By integrating traditional and DevNet certifications, professionals become highly desirable in roles that are driving the future of networking. Some of the key roles emerging from this convergence include:

Network Automation Engineer: automates configuration, monitoring, and compliance tasks
Cloud Network Architect: designs hybrid interconnects and cloud-native infrastructures
DevSecOps Engineer: integrates security policies into DevOps workflows
Site Reliability Engineer with Networking Focus: maintains network reliability at scale
SD-WAN Architect: builds and manages policy-driven, multi-cloud WANs

Employers actively seek candidates with a blend of infrastructure and programming skills. Job descriptions increasingly ask for:

Cisco certifications
Experience with Ansible or Python
Familiarity with REST APIs and automation frameworks
Understanding of CI/CD concepts
Cloud connectivity and VPN automation skills

This reflects a growing recognition that the network is no longer just a support system—it is a platform for innovation, speed, and resilience.

Planning a Strategic Career Roadmap

A well-structured certification path can position professionals for long-term success. A strategic learning roadmap could look like

CCNA: Build strong network fundamentals
DevNet Associate: develop scripting and API interaction skills
CCNP Enterprise or Security: specializes in infrastructure or defense
DevNet Professional: deepen automation expertise in a chosen domain
CCIE or DevNet Expert: reach technical leadership roles with hands-on mastery

This layered approach ensures that professionals can adapt to any direction technology takes—from AI-integrated networks to fully virtualized data centers.

The value of this strategy lies in its flexibility. Whether working in a cloud-native startup or a traditional enterprise undergoing digital transformation, certified professionals are equipped to lead change, not just react to it.

Final thoughts

The networking industry is no longer defined by physical infrastructure alone. The rise of cloud computing, software-defined architecture, and infrastructure as code has transformed how networks are built, maintained, and scaled. In response, Cisco has overhauled its certification framework to meet the realities of this modern digital ecosystem.

Cisco’s redesigned certifications provide a clear, modular, and highly adaptable pathway for professionals at every stage of their career. The unified CCNA delivers a broad-based foundation for newcomers and career changers alike. The restructured CCNP empowers professionals to specialize according to their role and interests through a flexible two-exam model. The CCIE continues to represent the highest level of technical mastery, now updated to include cloud, security, and automation scenarios that reflect real-world enterprise needs.

The introduction of the DevNet track marks a defining shift in Cisco’s vision. By validating skills in automation, programming, and API integration, DevNet certifications prepare network engineers for the responsibilities of hybrid infrastructure and DevOps collaboration. These certifications allow professionals to step beyond manual configuration and become active contributors to continuous integration, telemetry-based assurance, and programmable infrastructure.

This updated framework recognizes the convergence between development and operations. It gives professionals the tools to evolve beyond traditional networking roles and thrive in positions such as automation engineer, cloud network architect, and network reliability engineer. Whether designing policy-based SD-WAN architectures or automating configurations across a global infrastructure, Cisco-certified professionals are now equipped to deliver at scale.

What sets this system apart is its relevance and adaptability. Professionals can stack certifications across domains, recertify with continuing education, and chart personalized learning paths that align with shifting technologies and business priorities. The modular design supports specialization without losing sight of core fundamentals, while the inclusion of automation ensures every certification reflects the operational demands of today’s networks.

In a world where infrastructure must be agile, programmable, and secure, Cisco’s modern certifications offer more than technical validation—they offer career resilience. As networks become platforms for innovation, those who can automate, integrate, and secure them at scale will be in highest demand.

Cisco has redefined the learning journey to match the realities of modern IT. It is no longer about isolated command-line knowledge but about being able to architect and automate systems that support digital transformation.

For professionals seeking to future-proof their careers, embrace the next wave of networking, and contribute to a smarter, more connected world, Cisco’s new certification framework is not just an opportunity—it is a blueprint for growth.