You Passed Cisco DevNet Professional. What Is the Next Certification Worth Doing?

Congratulations! Earning the Cisco DevNet Professional certification is a significant achievement. You've proven your skills in network automation, DevOps, and programmability. But the tech landscape is ever-evolving, and continuous learning is key. So, what's next? This article explores strategic certification paths you can take after DevNet Professional, tailored to common career trajectories.

Why Keep Certifying?

Certifications validate your skills, boost your credibility, and open doors to new opportunities. They also help you stay current with emerging technologies. After the DevNet Professional, you're at an advanced level, but there's always more to master. The right next certification can deepen your expertise or broaden your skill set, making you more versatile and valuable. We recommend pairing this with Online Proctoring for Cisco DevNet Professional: Rules That Get People Failed.

Understanding Your Options

Your next step depends on your career goals. Are you aiming for a specialized DevOps role? Or do you want to move into security or architecture? Here are some popular paths:

1. Deepen Your Automation Skills: CCNP Enterprise or DevNet Expert

If you enjoyed the automation and programmability aspects of DevNet, consider the CCNP Enterprise with a focus on automation. This certification covers advanced routing and switching, but also emphasizes network automation using Python, REST APIs, and model-driven telemetry. It's a natural progression that blends traditional networking with automation.

Alternatively, if you're ready for a challenge, aim for the Cisco Certified DevNet Expert. This is a top-tier certification that demonstrates expert-level skills in software development and network automation. It's rigorous and requires deep knowledge of Python, REST APIs, and infrastructure as code. The DevNet Expert is perfect for those who want to be recognized as elite automation specialists.

2. Pivot to Security: CCNP Security or DevNet Security Specialist

Security is a critical concern for every organization. With your background, you can transition into security-focused roles. The CCNP Security certification covers core security technologies like VPNs, firewalls, and secure access. It also includes automation topics, which align well with your DevNet skills.

For a more specialized path, consider the DevNet Security Specialist (300-735 SAUTO). This certification focuses specifically on automating security solutions using Cisco platforms. It's a great way to combine your automation expertise with security, making you a rare and sought-after professional. Before moving on, consider reading Cisco DevNet Associate Difficulty: What Actually Makes People Fail.

3. Broaden into Architecture: Cisco Certified Architect

If you aspire to design complex networks and solutions, the Cisco Certified Architect (CCAr) is the pinnacle. It's a board-level certification that requires extensive experience and a deep understanding of network architecture. While not strictly about automation, your DevNet skills give you a unique perspective on how to integrate automation into large-scale designs.

However, the CCAr is a massive undertaking. A more accessible option is the Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE), which focuses on network design and architecture. While it doesn't require programming, your automation knowledge will help you design more efficient and agile networks.

4. Explore Cloud and Multi-Cloud: AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud

Many organizations are moving to the cloud, and hybrid environments are the norm. With your DevNet Professional, you're well-positioned to expand into cloud certifications. The AWS Certified DevOps Engineer or Microsoft Certified: Azure DevOps Engineer Expert are excellent choices. These certifications validate your ability to automate and manage cloud infrastructure, complementing your on-premises networking skills.

You could also pursue the Cisco Certified DevNet Professional in combination with a cloud provider certification to become a cloud networking specialist. This combination is highly attractive to employers looking for professionals who can bridge the gap between traditional networks and cloud environments.

Timeline and Career Paths

Your next certification should align with your career goals and timeline. Here’s a suggested roadmap:

Within 6 Months: Specialize

• If you want to stay in automation, take the CCNP Enterprise concentration exam in automation (300-435 ENAUTO).
• If security interests you, go for the DevNet Security Specialist (300-735 SAUTO).
• If you're leaning toward cloud, start with the AWS Certified Developer – Associate to build a foundation.

Within 1-2 Years: Broaden or Go Expert

• Pursue the Cisco Certified DevNet Expert if you want to be recognized as a top-tier automation expert.
• Or, combine your DevNet with a CCNP Security to become a security automation specialist.
• Alternatively, earn a cloud architect certification like AWS Solutions Architect Professional to position yourself for cloud architecture roles.

How It Fits Common Career Paths

Automation Engineer

If you're an automation engineer, the DevNet Expert is the natural next step. It will solidify your expertise and open doors to senior roles or consulting. You'll be able to design and implement complex automation solutions for large enterprises. You can explore this further in 10 Cisco DevNet Associate Questions Most Candidates Get Wrong.

DevOps Engineer

For a DevOps career, combining DevNet with a cloud DevOps certification is ideal. You'll be able to automate both network and cloud infrastructure, making you a full-stack automation expert. This versatility is highly valued in modern IT teams.

Security Engineer

As a security engineer, the CCNP Security or DevNet Security Specialist will help you automate security operations, making your skills more relevant in the age of AI-driven threats. You'll be able to respond faster to incidents and enforce security policies programmatically.

Network Architect

If you aspire to be an architect, the CCDE or CCAr is the ultimate goal. Your DevNet background will give you a unique edge, as you'll understand how to design networks that are not only robust but also programmable and automated.

Conclusion

Passing the Cisco DevNet Professional is a major milestone, but it's not the end of the road. The next certification you choose should align with your career aspirations and interests. Whether you decide to go deeper into automation, pivot to security, explore the cloud, or aim for architecture, there's a certification path for you.

Remember, certifications are not just about the title; they're about the knowledge and skills you gain. So, choose a path that excites you and challenges you to grow. The investment in your professional development will pay off in the long run.

Polish your exam technique with Cisco Developing Applications using Cisco Platforms and APIs (DEVCOR) practice papers that test timing as much as knowledge.

If you want a schedule that fits your timeline and a quick check of weak topics, the free study plans and readiness checks are available for every exam.