The Cisco DevNet Certification program validates skills in network automation, software development, and DevOps within Cisco environments. It’s designed for network engineers, software developers, and IT professionals who work on integrating applications and automating networks using Cisco platforms and APIs.
In an era where networks are increasingly software-defined, automated and integrated with applications, the Cisco DevNet certification program is designed to meet the industry’s evolving demands. This certification track empowers IT professionals, developers and network engineers to bridge the gap between traditional networking and modern software-driven infrastructure.
What the DevNet?
The DevNet certifications validate proficiency in three key domains: software development, network automation and DevOps workflows — all within the Cisco ecosystem. You learn to integrate, automate and develop within Cisco platforms using APIs, modern workflows and infrastructure knowledge.
Key focus areas include:
- Software development fundamentals (Python, version control, data formats such as JSON/YAML)
- Working with Cisco platforms & APIs (e.g., Webex, Meraki, Cisco DNA and more)
- Workflow automation, infrastructure as code (IaC), and configuration management
- Networking fundamentals in the context of application and automation workflows
- DevOps practices, deployment security, scalable and resilient architectures
These certifications bridge the gap between traditional networking and modern software-driven IT infrastructures.
Certification Levels & Pathways
» DevNet Associate
200-901: Developing Applications and Automating Workflows using Cisco Platforms (DEVASC)
» DevNet Specialist
300-910: Implementing DevOps Solutions and Practices using Cisco Platforms (DEVOPS)
» DevNet Professional
350-901: Developing Applications Using Cisco Core Platforms and APIs (DEVCOR)
Why Pursue DevNet Certification?
There are strong reasons to choose the DevNet track if you’re working at the intersection of networking and software:
- You gain in-demand skills in network automation and DevOps, positioning you for hybrid roles that are increasingly valued in modern enterprises.
- The certification validates your expertise in Cisco platforms, APIs and tools, signalling that you can operate efficiently in Cisco-centric environments.
- You become more credible in software-defined and automated infrastructures, an area rapidly growing in networking.
- For organizations, professionals with DevNet skills help streamline operations, reduce manual tasks and build systems that scale.
Who Should Consider It?
This certification path is well-suited for:
- Network engineers looking to enhance their automation and coding capabilities.
- Software developers wanting to broaden their profile into infrastructure, networking and Cisco-platform integration.
- DevOps or automation specialists aiming to deepen their knowledge in network-centric automation.
- IT professionals tasked with building, integrating or maintaining applications inside Cisco environments.
Career Impact & Opportunities
Earning a DevNet certification can open doors to roles such as:
- Network Automation Engineer
- DevOps Engineer with networking focus
- Infrastructure Developer/Architect
- System Integration Programmer
- Hybrid network-software professional
Many organizations now expect candidates to bring automation, coding and network expertise to the table. As one expert writes: “The DevNet certification pathway is designed to bridge two unique worlds… your career to this point has likely been focused more on networking or software.”
It’s not just about passing an exam – it’s about demonstrating that you can design, implement and maintain automation and software workflows within Cisco environments.
Is It Worth It?
Yes – especially if your career path is headed towards automation, software-driven networking, or you’re already operating in environments where application and network infrastructures are tightly integrated. The industry is shifting, and Cisco’s DevNet track is aligned with that shift. One analysis states: “Getting certified in one of the freshest accreditation tracks from the world’s leading networking vendor will undoubtedly help your career.”
Clearly define your goals, assess your current experience (development, networking, automation) and choose the level that aligns with your trajectory.
Tips for Success
- Build hands-on experience: Automation workflows, API integrations, scripting networks/devices.
- Use official Cisco readiness guides and learning resources.
- Practice with labs and real-world scenarios (e.g., automating device configurations, building applications on Cisco platforms).
- Engage with community forums or study groups peer interaction helps.
- Align the concentration/specialization exam (at Professional level) with your career target (e.g., DevOps automation, IoT, security automation).
