Introduction
Cisco DevNet certifications became important because the way network engineers interact and handle modern networks has changed. Today, engineers started needing APIs, automation, software skills, security, and infrastructure knowledge. This is the main reason behind the need for traditional engineers to come out of their comfort zone and learn skills that matters for modern networks as well as their career. In simple words, Cisco DevNet certifications bridge the gap between classic networking and modern automation work.
This certification validates one’s skills and knowledge in understanding and using APIs, Cisco platforms and development, application development and security, and infrastructure and automation.
In this blog, we will discuss the significance of Cisco DevNet certifications, their benefits, popular certifications, preparation strategies, exam details, and career opportunities.
Note: DevNet certification track is rebranded into the Automation track on February 3, 2026. This means the newer names for DevNet track are CCNA Automation, CCNP Automation, and CCIE Automation. Your active DevNet certification will automatically become the equivalent Automation certification.
What are Cisco DevNet Certifications?
Cisco DevNet certifications built around programmability and automation. It is a means by which you can prove your skills and expertise in the field of automation, software development, and programmability using Cisco technologies. It was created for students as well as professionals who are looking to work with Cisco platforms in a more software-driven manner.
Instead of focusing only on routing and switching, DevNet focuses more on:
- APIs
- Software design
- Automation workflows
- Application deployment
- Infrastructure programmability
This makes it very different from older certification expectations.
Also, DevNet is classified into three main levels:
- DevNet Associate/CCNA DevNet (Now CCNA Automation)
- DevNet Professional/CCNP DevNet (Now CCNP Automation)
- DevNet Expert/CCIE DevNet (Now CCIE Automation)
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Each level moves deeper into automation and software-led infrastructure work.
Benefits of Cisco DevNet Certifications
Here are some of the chosen benefits of Cisco DevNet Certifications –
- Enhanced Skills: Cisco DevNet certifications equip professionals with in-demand skills in software development, automation, and programmability, making them more valuable in the job market.
- Industry Recognition: Holding a Cisco DevNet certification demonstrates your expertise in Cisco technologies and sets you apart from your peers.
- Career Advancement: Cisco DevNet certifications open doors to exciting career opportunities in areas such as network automation, cloud integration, and IoT.
- Comprehensive Understanding: DevNet certifications provide a comprehensive understanding of the entire software development lifecycle within the Cisco ecosystem.
Who Should Choose Cisco DevNet Certifications Path?
This path fits learners who want to work across:
- Networking
- APIs
- Automation
- Cisco platforms
- Software-driven infrastructure
It is a strong fit for:
- Network automation engineers
- DevOps-minded infrastructure professionals
- Software professionals entering Cisco environments
- Engineers who want more than traditional network operations
That is why the path still has real value.
Let us discuss each cisco DevNet certifications level in detail.
Popular Cisco DevNet Certifications
Cisco Certified DevNet Associate (CCNA DevNet)
The first stage in the Cisco DevNet Certifications is CCNA Devnet.
For CCNA Automation (Formerly known as CCNA DevNet), you need to pass 200-901 CCNAAUTO (Formerly DEVASC 200-901) exam. APIs, infrastructure deployment, and software development principles are all covered in the exam. Also, knowing the fundamentals of networking, such as which protocols to use and how to understand bits and bytes, will help professionals understand their network better.
Suppose you are a developer who has one or more years of hands-on experience developing and maintaining applications. In that case, this certification will help you enhance your core knowledge of Cisco platforms, working with applications, Cisco’s programmability strategy, and APIs.
The DevNet Associate Exam v1.0 (DEVASC 200-901) exam is a 120-minute exam associated with the Cisco Certified DevNet Associate certification. It tests a candidate’s software development and design knowledge, including understanding and using APIs, Cisco platforms and development, application development and security, and infrastructure and automation.
CCNA DevNet specifically for:
- IT specialists moving into DevOps-style roles
- Automation specialists
- Software professionals expanding into Cisco infrastructure work
This makes DevNet Associate a strong entry point for people who want to combine networking and programming.
Some major topics are:
- Software development and design
- Understanding and using APIs
- Cisco platforms and development
- Application deployment and security
- Infrastructure and Automation
- Network fundamentals
Take a look at these CCNA DevNet Associate Interview Questions if you are preparing for an Interview.
Cisco Certified DevNet Professional (CCNP DevNet):
The second stage in the Cisco DevNet certifications is CCNP DevNet.
Developers with at least three to five years of experience in designing and implementing applications can for CCNP DevNet. For CCNP DevNet, you have to go for two exams i.e. one core exam and one concentration exam. These two exams test skills in building secure applications with Cisco APIs and platforms, and in deploying and managing applications on Cisco infrastructure.
The core exam: DEVCOR 350-901 validates aspiring candidates’ professional-level developer skills.
The concentration exam: You can choose between eight concentration exams from the given lists, and there is no need to take them all. Choosing DevOps will make sense if you know the DevOps’ tooling ecosystem. The enterprise exam is an excellent choice if you are interested in pursuing network automation.
Choose from the following technology and subject areas:
- Enterprise Automation (ENAUTO 300-435)
- Data Centre Automation (DCAUTO 300-635)
- Security Automation (SAUTO 300-735)
Cisco Certified DevNet Expert (CCIE DevNet)
The last stage in the Cisco DevNet Certifications track is Cisco Certified DevNet Expert.
This certification is mainly for developers and network engineers with three to five years of experience in application development, operations, security, or infrastructure. It validates specialized knowledge and skills that connect development, operations, security, and network operations in an environment focused on continuously delivering applications and services using Cisco platforms and devices.
The CCIE DevNet certification empowers professionals to effectively integrate business applications with network infrastructure, optimize workflows, and enhance the overall efficiency and performance of organizations. With this certification, individuals demonstrate their proficiency in leveraging programmability and automation to drive innovation and enable digital transformation in the networking industry.
Cisco DevNet Certification cost
The Cisco DevNet certification exam cost varies according to its levels:
Associate level exams: 300 USD + Taxes
Professional level exams:
- Core exam – 400 USD + Taxes
- Concentration exam – 300 USD + Taxes
Expert level exams:
- Qualifying exam – 400 USD + Taxes
- Lab exam – 1600 USD + Taxes
How to prepare for Cisco DevNet Certifications
Preparing for Cisco DevNet certifications requires a systematic approach and access to relevant study materials. Here are some effective strategies to help you ace your certification exams:
- Start your preparation by referring to the official certification guides provided by Cisco. These guides cover the exam topics in detail and serve as a comprehensive resource for exam preparation.
- Cisco DevNet offers a wide range of learning labs that provide hands-on experience with Cisco technologies and APIs. These labs allow you to gain practical skills and reinforce your understanding of key concepts.
- Consider enrolling in training courses and bootcamps offered by various training companies like PyNet Labs. These courses provide structured learning experiences and expert guidance, cisco certified trainers helping you grasp complex topics effectively.
- To gauge your readiness for the certification exams, take advantage of practice exams and mock tests.
Cisco DevNet Certifications – Important points you need to know
Here are the important things about Cisco DevNet certifications that you must know.
DevNet helps maintain the delicacy of networking infrastructure
DevNet helps professionals manage modern networking infrastructure with better automation, security, and application-based skills. As networks become more interconnected, DevNet skills help IT professionals maintain stability and reduce infrastructure risks.
DevNet offers in-demand skills to professionals for shaping the future technology
Cisco DevNet training helps professionals build skills in application design, software development, automation, and Cisco platforms. These skills are useful for designing, implementing, building, and improving modern infrastructure for future business needs.
Cisco DevNet Certifications focuses on automation
Cisco DevNet certifications focus strongly on automation, APIs, and integration skills. They help network engineers and developers work together by combining networking knowledge with software and automation practices.
DevNet provides Cisco’s Expert-Level Certification option
Cisco also offers expert-level certifications via Cisco’s CCIE DevNet track. This certification demonstrates advanced understanding of APIs, software development, Cisco platforms, application deployment, infrastructure, security, and automation.
DevNet Training for Passing the Exam
A good DevNet training can assist candidates in preparing to be better prepared for Cisco certification exams. When choosing a course, students must take consideration like study materials along with the trainer’s expertise, price, and accessibility in order to obtain the most value for money and best exam preparation.At PyNet Labs, students get hands-on Cisco Automation and DevNet Expert training under Abhijit Bakale (#20230021), helping them build practical skills in network automation, APIs, Python, and Cisco programmability while preparing confidently for certification exams.
Career Opportunities with Cisco DevNet Certifications
Cisco DevNet certifications open doors to a wide range of career opportunities. Professionals with DevNet training can pursue roles such as:
- Network Automation Engineer
- DevOps Engineer
- Solutions Architect
- IoT Developer
- Cloud Engineer
By showcasing their expertise in software development and automation, professionals can unlock rewarding career paths and stay relevant in the ever-evolving IT industry.
Is DevNet still relevant?
Yes, but the context changed. DevNet is still relevant because the skills behind it are still relevant. APIs, automation, programmability, and Cisco platform development are still valuable. What changed is the naming and the portfolio direction.
So the better way to understand it is this:
- DevNet is the widely known older track name.
- Automation is the newer direction Cisco is moving toward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Which is better CCNA or DevNet?
The choice between CCNA and DevNet depends on your career goals and interests. If you want to specialize in traditional networking and network administration, CCNA is a better choice. If you are interested in software development, automation, and programmability within the networking domain, DevNet certifications are more suitable.
Q2. How much does Cisco DevNet certification cost?
The cost of Cisco DevNet certifications varies depending on the specific certification level and the country in which the exam is taken. The cost for the DevNet Associate (DEVASC) exam is USD 300 + Taxes, whereas DevNet Professional is USD 400 + Taxes. The cost of the DevNet Expert is USD 1600 + Taxes.
Q3. How do I get Cisco DevNet certification?
To obtain Cisco DevNet certification, you need to:
- Choose a certification level (Associate, Professional, or Specialist).
- Prepare for the exam using official Cisco study materials.
- Schedule and pass the certification exam to earn your DevNet certification.
Q4. Is DevNet Cisco worth IT?
Yes, devNet Worth it DevNet Cisco certifications are worth it for IT professionals interested in software development, automation, and programmability within the networking domain. These certifications validate valuable skills that are in high demand in the industry, and they can open up various career opportunities in network automation, DevOps, and software development roles.
Conclusion
Today, the skills behind DevNet still matter strongly, but Cisco is moving the portfolio forward under the Automation name. Cisco DevNet certifications provide an easy way for professionals to improve their expertise in programming, software, automation, and programming in the Cisco ecosystem. With these certifications, people can enhance their skillset and look out for new career opportunities.
