If you’re a network engineer or a software developer eyeing the future of networking, you’ve probably heard whispers about the Cisco Certified DevNet Professional certification. But what exactly is it, and why should you care? Let’s break it down—no jargon, no fluff—just straight talk about how this certification can catapult your career into the era of automation, APIs, and programmability.
What’s the Buzz About Cisco DevNet?
Cisco’s DevNet community isn’t just another certification track—it’s a revolution. While traditional Cisco certifications like the CCNP Enterprise focus on configuring routers and switches, Cisco DevNet certifications pivot toward software development, automation tools, and applications built on Cisco platforms. Think of it as the bridge between networking hardware and the software that makes it sing.
The Cisco Certified DevNet Professional (or DevNet Pro) is the crown jewel for developers and engineers who want to automate and extend Cisco collaboration platforms, design applications using Cisco core platforms and APIs, and master network automation. It’s designed to validate your ability to develop and maintain applications built on Cisco infrastructure while integrating Python programming, data models, and DevOps practices.
Why DevNet Professional? Let’s Compare
Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s clear up how this certification stacks up against others:
| Aspect | DevNet Associate | DevNet Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Basics of automation and APIs | Advanced software development and design |
| Exams Required | One exam (200-901 DEVASC) | Two exams: Core (350-901 DEVCOR) + one concentration exam |
| Skill Level | Foundational | Expert-level deployment automation |
| Ideal For | Beginners in network automation | Engineers building applications that automate and extend Cisco systems |
While the DevNet Associate is your entry ticket, the DevNet Pro is where you prove you can implement enterprise automated solutions and maintain applications built on Cisco.
Breaking Down the DevNet Professional Certification
Step 1: Conquer the Core Exam (350-901 DEVCOR)
The 350-901 DEVCOR exam is the gatekeeper. It tests your knowledge of software development, Cisco APIs, and security automation. Key topics include:
- Python programming for network scripts
- Using APIs to interact with Cisco platforms
- DevOps practices for deployment automation
- Application security and data center automated solutions
Cisco’s official DEVCOR exam blueprint leaves no stone unturned.
Step 2: Choose Your Concentration Exam
Here’s where you specialize. Pick one concentration exam aligned with your career goals:
- Enterprise Automation (300-435 ENAUTO)
- Security Automation (300-735 SAUTO)
- Collaboration Automation (300-835 CLAUTO)
- Service Provider Automation (300-535 SPAUTO)
- Data Center Automation (300-635 DCAUTO)
Each exam dives deep into automation tools and Cisco technologies specific to that domain. For example, collaboration automation focuses on extending Cisco collaboration platforms like Webex through APIs.
Why This Certification Matters in 2024
1. The Rise of Network Automation
Gone are the days of manually configuring switches. Companies demand engineers who can automate and extend Cisco collaboration platforms using Python and Cisco APIs. The DevNet Pro cert proves you’re fluent in tools like Ansible, Puppet, and Cisco’s own Cisco U learning platform.
2. Bridging the Gap Between Dev and Ops
With knowledge of DevOps practices, you’ll streamline workflows, reduce errors, and deploy solutions faster. Imagine writing a Python script that automatically provisions VLANs across 500 switches—that’s the power of deployment automation.
3. Future-Proof Your Career
Cisco predicts that 95% of network changes will be automated by 2025. By mastering applications built on Cisco core platforms, you position yourself as the go-to expert for Cisco enterprise environments.
How to Prepare: Tips from the DevNet Certifications Community
1. Leverage Cisco’s Learning Ecosystem
- Cisco U: Enroll in DevNet Professional training courses tailored to the exam objectives.
- Sandbox Labs: Hands-on practice with real Cisco platforms like DNA Center and Meraki.
2. Code, Code, Code
- Sharpen your Python programming skills—most automation tasks rely on it.
- Experiment with Cisco APIs (RESTCONF, NETCONF) to manage devices programmatically.
3. Join the Tribe
The DevNet certifications community is vibrant. Engage in forums, attend Cisco Live, and collaborate on GitHub projects.
Renewal: Keep Your Certification Alive
Like all Cisco certifications, the DevNet Pro requires renewal every three years. You can:
- Renew with continuing education credits (80 CE credits) via courses or contributions to the community.
- Retake exams if you prefer the traditional route.
Final Thoughts: Is the DevNet Pro Worth It?
If you’re passionate about merging software development and design with networking, the Cisco Certified DevNet Professional is a game-changer. It’s not just about passing exams—it’s about unlocking the ability to implement applications that automate complex workflows, extend Cisco collaboration platforms, and bring productivity to the next level.
Whether you’re a network engineer eyeing security automation or a developer keen on Cisco enterprise ecosystems, this certification validates both your development knowledge and your networking expertise. So, grab your Python editor, dive into Cisco core platforms and APIs, and start building the future—one automated script at a time.
Ready to Begin?
Check out Cisco’s DevNet Certification Hub for exam details, study groups, and free learning resources. Your journey to becoming a Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist starts now! 
FAQs
What is the Cisco Certified DevNet Professional certification?
The Cisco Certified DevNet Professional certification is an advanced-level certification designed to help network professionals validate their skills in automation and programmability. This certification focuses on developing applications using Cisco core platforms and APIs, as well as integrating Cisco solutions within application development and deployment pipelines. It demonstrates a professional’s ability to implement automation and programmability across Cisco’s portfolio, making it an essential credential for those looking to advance their careers in network automation.
How do I obtain the Cisco Certified DevNet Professional certification?
To obtain the Cisco Certified DevNet Professional certification, candidates must pass two exams. The first is a core exam that covers foundational DevNet professional concepts, and the second is a concentration exam of your choice that focuses on a specific area of expertise. This structure allows professionals to tailor their learning journey to their specific interests and career goals while ensuring a strong foundation in DevNet practices.
What topics are covered in the DevNet Professional core exam?
The DevNet professional exam covers a wide range of topics essential for network automation mastery. These include software development and design, using APIs, network fundamentals, application deployment and security, infrastructure and automation, and Cisco platforms. The exam tests a candidate’s knowledge of implementing these concepts in real-world scenarios, ensuring that certified professionals are well-equipped to handle complex automation tasks.
What are the concentration exams available for the DevNet Professional certification?
Cisco offers several concentration exams for the DevNet Professional certification, each focusing on a specific area of expertise. Some options include Enterprise Automation and Programmability, Data Center Automation and Programmability, Service Provider Automation and Programmability, and Security Automation and Programmability. Every exam you pass earns you a specialist certification, allowing you to showcase your expertise in multiple areas.
How does the Cisco Certified DevNet Professional certification differ from other Cisco certifications?
The Cisco Certified DevNet Professional Certification differs from other Cisco certifications as it focuses on software development and design, including the use of tools and insights for automation and innovation. Unlike the CCNP Enterprise Certification, which emphasizes a candidate’s knowledge of implementing enterprise networks, the DevNet Professional targets developers and network engineers.
Furthermore, the Cisco Certified Specialist certification offers a specialist certification for every exam, allowing candidates to tailor their learning. This is in contrast to the Cisco Certified DevNet Expert Certification, which represents a pinnacle of expertise. The certification experience gave candidates a deeper understanding of implementing data center automated solutions.
Group training options are available to help maintain your certification. Candidates must earn continuing education credits or retake exams to keep their credentials current, similar to how one would maintain a knowledge of implementing data center solutions.
