Cisco DevNet Associate Certification

Within this chapter, the candidates should consolidate their proficiency in using different methods for software development and learn how to compare various data formats. Also, the examinees will need to demonstrate that they are specialists in using Python data structures for formatting data and manage test-driven development topics. Another subtopic included in this domain will test the candidates’ ability to deploy Commit, Merge, Clone, or Branch control operations.

When they reach this section, the exam-takers will need to showcase their ability to build REST API requests. This skill will help them take any task related to the API documentation to an end and improve the business processes. Also, the candidates will need to demonstrate their capacity of using work patterns and identify any restrictions that usually come with API management actions. Then, exam-takers should be prepared to answer questions that test their knowledge of how to handle various API styles. They should also know how to apply various common mechanisms associated with API authentication. Finally, candidates should learn how to troubleshoot and solve any issues that come associated with using and implementing API documentation or the HTTP response code features.

This section focuses on validating the exam-takers' skills in using the Cisco SDK documentation to build a Python script. They should also demonstrate that they know how to manage the Cisco network, collaboration, and security platforms. Besides, the exam-takers should learn about identifying the most effective DevNet resources that will bring a positive outcome in a given scenario. For instance, they will need to learn how different concepts such as the Code Exchange, Sandbox, or Learning Labs work. Finally, the examinees should develop a solid understanding of model-driven programmability concepts. They should also be aware of how to build codes that meet clear requirements when the need arises.

Within such a topic, the candidates should validate their understanding of how edge components work and how they can use the CI/CD pipeline to deploy applications. Besides, they should develop solid skills in identifying the specifics that different deployment apps usually require. In addition, the exam-takers should demonstrate that they are able to build a unit test for the Python program and know how to use reverse proxies, load balancers, or firewalls in a business context.

This exam part develops the candidates’ skills in interpreting results obtained in the NETCONF or RESTCONF queries, as well as working with unified diff, basic YANG model, or comparing device-level management with controllers. They should also understand how to use test and simulation tools. Besides, it is important that the test-takers know how to enhance the automation tools’ capabilities and understand how they contribute to improving business processes. This means that the candidates should develop their skills in interpreting API calls & other sequence diagrams.

Within the last domain, the candidates will need to develop a solid understanding of how the VLANs, IP addresses, data, and networking components work. Also, they should become experts in interpreting the diagrams related to the basic network topology. Then, they should know how to describe the IP services' functionality and understand the network-associated constraints. Finally, the candidates should gain a solid grasp of how these constraints affect the business performance and its processes.

Career Opportunities for Cisco Certified DevNet Associate

Once you manage to obtain the Cisco DevNet Associate designation, you become eligible and most-wanted for different positions, such as:

• Network Engineer;
• DevNet Engineer;
• Network Administrator;
• DevOps Engineer;
• Systems Architect.

By adding this DevNet Associate certification to your resume, you’ll become a desirable candidate for many corporations that are looking for skilled specialists. If you want to work as a network engineer, according to Payscale.com, your annual average salary stays in the range of $75k. In case you would rather develop a career as a systems architect, then your average annual salary will start the amount of $70k.

Further Certification Steps

Once you’ve added the DevNet Associate certificate under your belt, you shouldn’t stop here. You can move forward to obtain the Cisco Certified DevNet Professional validation and consolidate your skills in managing networking technologies. All you need to do is pass 350-901 core exam and choose one of the available concentration tests.