What is DevNet & Why Learn It? - Become a Network Engineer (2024)

DevNet = Development + Networking

Traditionally, network engineers just needed to focus on one primary topic: the network itself. This is a large topic and includes components like hardware (routers, switches, etc.), networking technologies (routing protocols, Spanning-Tree, QoS, etc.) and network troubleshooting. These skills have allowed network engineers configure and troubleshoot complex networking environments. But these complex networks take time and a fair amount of work to develop and implement. And, when something goes wrong, finding and fixing problems can also be time-consuming and costly.

Recently, Cisco and other networking organizations have embraced an exciting newer technique to configure networks more rapidly. By developing software programs, network engineers can now automate the orchestration of networking environments. What used to take days or weeks can now be reduced to hours or even minutes.Learn what it takes to become a network engineer and DevNet specialist.

“Market Transitions wait for no one.”

– John Chambers, Cisco CEO

In the near future, Cisco and other major networking companies will require all network engineers to have programming skills. But, what exactly does this mean? What sort of skills should a DevNet expert suppose to have?

Want to learn more about the benefits of learning about DevNet? Watch the following video from Cisco: Watch Video

What You will Learn in CIS280A: DevNet Part 1 and CIS280B: DevNet Part 2

CIS280A and CIS280B are designed to prepare students to take the 200-901 DEVASC exam (you can learn more about our Cisco programshere). Successfully passing this exam results in earning the Cisco Certified DevNet Associate certification. But, what is DevNet and what can you expect to learn in these classes?

Software development itself is a very large topic. Fortunately, Cisco has been very clear regarding which DevNet topics are covered in the 200-901 DEVASC exam. The CIS280A and CIS280B classes are directly aligned to these topics. The overall topics are:

• Software Development and Design: Dives into data format, like XML, JSON and YAML. This section also explores different development methods, such as agile, lean and waterfall. You will also learn how to work on larger projects using Git, a version control software tool.
• Understanding and Using APIs: Learn what REST APIs are and how the are used to ask a server to perform an action. You will also discover how to use REST APIs in Python programs to automate the network.
• Cisco Platforms and Development: Covers a wide range of Cisco technologies, including Meraki, Cisco DNA Center, ACI, Cisco SD-WAN, and NSO. You will learn how to use Python scripts to interact with these tools, enabling automation of Cisco network environments.
• Application Deployment and Security: Ever want to learn about Docker containers? The focus of the Application Deployment and Security section focus on this technology. You will also learn how to use Bash commands, DevOps practices (DevOps = Development + Operations) and security issues that can affect DevNet.
• Infrastructure and Automation: Learn more about automating the network. Technologies like Ansible, Puppet and Chef are introduced. You also learn about RESTCONF, NETCONF and YANG, important technologies that are related to communicating with network resources and services.
• Network Fundaments: Learn network basics such as MAC and IP addresses, common networking components (switches, routers, firewalls and load balancers) and commonly-used IP Services (DHCP, DNS, NAT and more). You also learn about network topology diagrams and the different plans in a network (management, data and control).

What to Expect in CIS280A and CIS280B

Before attending you should be aware that these are fast-paced and challenging classes. You will learn a lot of new technologies which are reinforced by many hands-on practice exercises. You will be installing and learning many new tools including Git, Postman, Python, Docker and more.

Each week you will be working on several labs, both in class and as homework assignments. These labs will challenge your skills at accurately following directions as well as your ability to interpret error messages to determine where problems occur. Your instructor will be available each week to assist you, but this is definitely a class in which you will need to roll up your sleeves and dig into the hands-on experiences.

Ultimately you should expect to complete this class with the skills you need to pass the Cisco Certified DevNet Associate exam and earn that certifications. These skills will make you a much stronger candidate for either networking or software positions. To learn more about the DevNet certification exam, clickhere.

Why take CIS280A and CIS280B at CIAT?

The Cisco Certified DevNet Associate exam is a challenging one and you want to be best prepared when you take it. CIAT provides you with the best chance of passing this exam:

• Highly skilled instructors –Learn from the best in the industry. Our instructors not only know the subject very well, they are experts at providing a engaging learning environment.
• All content covered –Our Devnet courses provide complete coverage of all certification topics.
• Exam fees included –Your tuition includes the cost of the Cisco Certified DevNet Associate exam! No need to worry about finding the funds to pay for the exam.

How do I get DevNet certified?

Studying for the DevNet certification on your own is doable, but often leaves you without the required technical skills in your background, or the necessary resources to translate your exam score into an IT career.

Join over 2,000 students who have enrolled in CIAT accredited Certificate and Degree programs and are on their path to launching or advancing their IT careers. Our extensive, custom designed IT curriculum provides training for up to 14 industry certifications, including DevNet.

• No exam fees*
• Hands-on training through on-campus and virtual online classes
• Online test preparation workshops
• Test preparation software
• Complimentary week-long IT bootcamps
• One-on-one support from certified instructors
• Accredited Certificate and Degree programs to beef up your resume
• Personalized career services support including resume building and job placement support

*Students are encouraged to take certification exams while actively enrolled in the degree program. Unlimited certification exam attempts expire 90 days after graduation. The following are single attempt exams and are not eligible for a retake voucher: CEH, CASP, CISSP, DevNet & CCNP. See certification exam policy for more details.

Take the first step.

Building a strong coding portfolio takes hard work and dedication. Whether you’re just starting in the field or advancing your career, learning how to create an education plan that aligns with your career goals saves you time and money. This also delivers the most significant return on your investment.

Career Planning

You’ve chosen an education plan with a goal in mind, and now you’re focused on making the most of your educational resources to ensure you’re setting yourself up for success in the job market. The most impactful recommendation we give to all new CIAT students in the tech field is not to wait until graduation to start their IT career planning. When you begin your career planning steps from day 1 of your program, you graduate career-ready and are more likely to find your first job quickly, with competitive salary ranges.

• Building Your Coding Portfolio
• Getting IT Certified

Let us help you achieve your career goals.

When landing your dream job, CIAT supports its students every step of the way – ensuring you graduate with more than just a degree. Our ITcareer servicesteamfocuses on both your professional and personal development to help prepare you for a career in web development, mobile app development,information technology, cybersecurity, networking, and more.

Get certified, earn your degree, and start your path to a new career with:

• Personalized career coaching
• Industry certification workshops
• Resume building
• LinkedIn profile optimization
• Mock interview practice
• Job placement support
• Dedicated job board
• Specialty career-building workshops
• Technology career fairs and employer “meet and greets”
• Work study and volunteer opportunities