DevNet Associate
Course Description
Networks are no longer configured by typing commands into a CLI—they're programmed. This course from Cisco Networking Academy teaches you the skills to automate, program, and connect modern networks and infrastructure. It's designed to prepare you for the Cisco DevNet Associate certification, one of the most valuable credentials for network automation engineers.
You'll learn Python programming for network automation, REST APIs, data formats (JSON, XML, YAML), DevOps practices, and how to work with Cisco platforms (including IOS XE, Meraki, Webex, and more). The course covers software development fundamentals, version control with Git, and infrastructure as code concepts. You'll get hands-on experience in virtual labs, writing real automation scripts.
This free, self-paced course takes about 50+ hours to complete. It's designed for network engineers, software developers, and IT professionals who want to bridge the gap between coding and infrastructure. Prior knowledge of basic networking and some programming (Python recommended) is required. Upon completion, you'll earn a Cisco digital badge and be well-prepared to take the DevNet Associate certification exam (200-901 DEVASC).
Course Provider
Provider: Cisco Networking Academy, a global leader in IT, networking, and software education.
Platform: Cisco NetAcad online platform – fully online, self-paced, with integrated coding labs and DevNet sandbox environments.
Accreditation: This course aligns with the official Cisco DevNet Associate certification (200-901 DEVASC). The Cisco digital badge is recognized globally by employers.
Course Syllabus (Key Modules)
Learning Objectives
- Write Python scripts to automate network and infrastructure tasks.
- Understand and use REST APIs to interact with network devices and platforms.
- Parse and generate JSON, XML, and YAML data formats.
- Automate Cisco devices using NETCONF, RESTCONF, and model-driven programmability.
- Use Ansible for configuration management and infrastructure as code.
- Manage code with Git and participate in CI/CD workflows.
- Work with Cisco APIs (Meraki, Webex, DNA Center).
- Prepare for the Cisco DevNet Associate certification exam (200-901 DEVASC).
- Earn a Cisco digital badge demonstrating DevNet skills.
Course Prerequisites
Technical: Strong understanding of networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, routing, switching). Prior completion of Cisco's Networking Basics or CCNA-level knowledge is recommended. Basic Python programming experience (variables, loops, functions) is essential. If you're new to Python, take Cisco's JavaScript Essentials or a similar introductory programming course first.
Recommended prior courses: Networking Basics, CCNA (or equivalent), and basic Python programming.
Who should take this: Network engineers who want to learn automation, software developers working on infrastructure, DevOps engineers, and anyone pursuing the Cisco DevNet Associate certification.
User Reviews
"This course is a game-changer. I've been a network engineer for 10 years, but I was stuck doing manual CLI configs. This course taught me Python and REST APIs in a practical, network-focused way. The module on NETCONF and RESTCONF was exactly what I needed. I'm now automating config backups and deployments. The Cisco badge helped me justify a raise. Highly recommended for any network pro."
"I came from a software development background and wanted to learn network automation. This course was perfect. It covers both the coding and the networking sides. The DevNet sandbox labs are awesome—you can practice on real Cisco gear without owning any. I passed the DevNet Associate exam on my first try using this course as my primary study material."
"Excellent course, but it's demanding. You need solid networking knowledge and basic Python to succeed. The labs are challenging and realistic. The section on Git and CI/CD was a nice bonus. My only complaint is that some labs require careful attention to version compatibility, but that's real-world. The free badge is a nice credential. Be prepared to put in the hours."
Based on 950+ ratings on Cisco NetAcad.
💡 Final Thoughts
The future of networking is automation. If you're still typing commands manually, you're falling behind. This Cisco DevNet Associate course teaches you the skills that every modern network engineer needs: Python, APIs, automation tools, and DevOps practices. It's not an easy course—you need networking fundamentals and basic coding knowledge. But if you're ready, this free resource is worth its weight in gold. You'll be prepared for the DevNet Associate certification, which is highly respected in the industry. The Cisco digital badge is a nice bonus. Don't just configure networks. Automate them.
DevNet Associate (Cisco) – FAQ
Is this course really free?
Yes, completely free. Cisco Networking Academy offers this course at no cost. You just need a free NetAcad account.
Do I need prior networking and programming experience?
Yes. This is an intermediate to advanced course. You need solid networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, routing, switching) and basic Python programming (variables, loops, functions). If you're missing these, take Networking Basics and JavaScript Essentials first.
How long does the course take?
The course is self-paced and takes approximately 50+ hours. Plan to study several hours per week over 2-3 months.
Will I receive a certificate or badge?
Yes, upon passing the final exam, you'll earn an official Cisco digital badge. You can share it on LinkedIn and other platforms.
Does this course alone prepare me for the DevNet Associate certification exam?
This course covers the majority of the exam topics. However, Cisco recommends supplementing with official exam guides, practice tests, and hands-on experience. Many learners use this course as their primary study resource and then take practice exams before attempting the certification.
Is the DevNet Associate certification worth it?
Yes. Network automation skills are in high demand. The DevNet Associate certification is respected by employers and often leads to higher salaries and roles like network automation engineer, DevOps engineer, or site reliability engineer.