DevNet(Cisco/Network Programmability)

Network programmability refers to the ability to automate and manage networking devices using software-based solutions and programming techniques. This approach allows for more flexible, scalable, and efficient network management, enabling organizations to adapt quickly to changing business requirements. The importance of network programmability can be highlighted in various aspects, and its impact on the job market, especially for Cisco DevNet certified individuals, is significant.

So what comes to mind first before even Starting to Study – I would Like to Share a video with you from one of my favorite YouTuber’s (DataKnox)

This video was released almost 3 Years ago and I can tell you the Job Market is Booming for Certified DevNet Automation Individuals. The Network, even though is more exposed in the cloud is still very much alive! And with Cisco’s DevNet Associate Certification track, you cannot go wrong. Please like and subscribe to his Channel.

Let’s take a Quick View of the Cisco DevNet BluePrint and what skills and Resources you need to Pass the DevNet Associate.

Here is a link to the official DevNet Associate BluePrint: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/training-events/training-certifications/certifications/devnet/cisco-certified-devnet-associate.html#~get-started

I have personally used CBT Nuggets Content and Cisco’s Sandbox (Cisco Model Labs) To get Certified.

I recommend you to join myself and 600 other Members continuously learning together on a Study Group I authored in 2020 called the Cisco Global Study Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/CiscoDevNetStudyGlobalGroup

Most of what you need will to get started will already be on the Facebook Group and we have Moderators Globally whom are available to assist you with your requests and questions on your DevNet Journey. What is awesome about this program is you can start off with Zero / None Programming or Development Background and Learn the basic Principles of Version Control Systems, XML, YAML, YANG, Python and a whole lot more. There is no escaping understanding the fundamentals of at least interpreting Code & I failed twice before passing the DevAsc 200 – 901 (Which is the Cisco Exam Code).

Cisco has been known by potential employers to be a trusted exam vendor of Choice and since 1998, anyone CCNA certified had a better opportunity, standing out above the rest on the Job Market. Cisco Changed my life – I was lucky enough to be posted as one of their Success Stories – Link Below: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/training-events/training-certifications/certifications/associate.html

I maybe working as a Senior AWS DevOps Engineer, but after obtaining my first CCNA Qualification back in 2018, I have been on a upward trajectory ever since. You just need to put in the time, even its just 1 hour a day. Here is another one of my favorite YouTuber’s Duan Lightfoot, his also actually with AWS Today, but he speaks about how the Cisco CCNA Changed his life as well, he went from an everyday 9 – 5pm work man to a Global Mentor, Content Creator and honestly one of the most inspiring people I have come to know to date. Please Like his Video and Subscribe to his Channel as well.

So now that we are all motivated start learning, here is some material to help you on your journey.

Python for Beginners (Its important to follow along as there is extra content below to test your knowledge)

Now that you are familiar with a high level overview of python – which better way to test your knowledge then getting started with the official training and Labs from the The Python Institute of Learning. (PS Absolutely Free)

https://pythoninstitute.org/python-essentials-1

Sign up for free and get started. Next up is Linux and Linux is absolutely everywhere today, most of our mobile Operating Systems run off Linux, most of our Cloud Vendors run off Linux Based Systems, so the time to Learn Linux is now! and what better way then with the NDG Essentials From Cisco themselves.

NDG Linux Essentials (Provided thanks to Cisco & Linux Professional Institute)

Nearly Every IT Job Requires Some Linux Knowledge

As one of the most successful open source collaborations, Linux has evolved into the most reliable operating system on the planet. It’s used for embedded systems to virtually all supercomputers for a good reason. NDG Linux Essentials quickly builds your Linux knowledge and prepares you for the Linux Professional Institute Linux Essentials certificate, your proof to employers that you know Linux! Many concepts in this course are covered at a more demanding pace in NDG Linux I. No prerequisites required. This course will come with a certificate of Completion as well for prospective employers.

You’ll Learn These Core Skills:

  • Acquire open source concepts and progressively master Linux commands.
  • Understand how Linux is used and the basics of its command line.
  • Become skilled at using the Linux virtual machine for experiments.
  • Prepare for LPI Linux Essentials Professional Development Certificate (PDC).

Your Just one Click Away from Learning Linux: https://www.netacad.com/courses/os-it/ndg-linux-essentials

Once you complete the above you will receive a coupon code and you may write and pass your LPIC Essentials / LPIC-1 depending if you have the budget to do so, this is not mandatory, but will give you an extra step ahead of the rest. The exam is not expensive as well with your Discount Voucher from Cisco it should be under $99.

Next Up I encourage you to go through another of my Favorite Youtuber’s Channels Network Chuck! The guy is incredible, his formerly a CBT Nuggets Trainer himself and released an entire Video Series Covering the Cisco CCNA. I will also share his tips on how he passed the Cisco DevNet Associate Shortly afterward. Please like and subscribe to his channel as well!

Here are his tips / methods he used to become Cisco DevNet Certified.

I encourage you to sign up to Cisco’s https://developer.cisco.com/site/welcome/ its all for free and there is a sandbox you can use to get Lab and get more yourself more familiar with automation, I encourage to be creative and design your own Labs.

Another Fantastic resource is https://killercoda.com/ Here there are more Linux Labs, Git for version control & even Ansible.

Here are another x2 Free Video Courses on the DevNet Associate – however I want to encourage everyone, with the power of the internet you are not only subject to the material’s I have posted here, or within our Facebook group, if you have the money to invest in Courses from ITProTV or CBT Nuggets, I encourage you to do so, however the primary reason I built this website is for free learning for everyone. The most precious investment is the one in which we make in ourselves, so I encourage you to use these resources and get started on your Journey. Feel Free to hit the contact us button below if you have any questions are any material you would like to contribute to this track and last but not least. Best of Luck for your Examination!

Dan’s Course on the DEVASC 200-901

GOOD LUCK!!!