About 200-901 Exam
Why the Cisco 200-901 Certification is a Smart Choice for IT Pros
Networking is no longer just about configuring routers and managing switches. The industry is shifting towards automation, programmability, and API-driven network management, making traditional networking skills less relevant without knowledge of automation tools. Cisco has recognized this transformation and designed the 200-901 certification to equip IT professionals with network programmability and automation skills needed for modern infrastructures.
This certification isn’t just about passing another IT test it’s about positioning yourself for the future. IT roles are evolving, and companies now seek professionals who can develop applications, automate workflows, and integrate APIs into networking environments. The 200-901 DevNet Associate exam helps validate your ability to work with Cisco’s core platforms, network automation, and infrastructure programmability.
If you’re serious about advancing in network automation, DevOps, or software-driven networking, getting certified in Cisco DevNet is one of the best career moves you can make.
Who Will Benefit the Most from This Certification?
Not everyone in IT needs to be an expert in coding, but if your job involves networking, software development, or DevOps, this cert can give you the edge to stay relevant in the evolving tech landscape.
Who Should Consider the Cisco 200-901 Exam?
- Network Engineers – If you’re moving into software-defined networking (SDN), network automation, or cloud networking, this cert validates your ability to work with APIs, Python, and automation tools.
- Software Developers – If you build applications that interact with Cisco’s APIs, this cert proves that you understand network automation, API-driven networking, and Cisco’s DevNet ecosystem.
- IT Professionals Shifting to Automation – If you’re currently working with traditional networking but want to specialize in automation, scripting, or infrastructure programmability, this certification helps bridge that gap.
- DevOps Engineers – If your role involves automating infrastructure as code (IaC), handling network automation pipelines, and integrating Cisco platforms into DevOps workflows, this cert proves your expertise.
What Should You Know Before Taking the Exam?
The 200-901 certification does not require any prior certifications, but basic knowledge of programming, networking, and Cisco platforms will help. If you have experience with Python scripting, REST APIs, and network automation tools, you’ll find the content much easier to grasp.
If you’re new to automation, learning basic Python, JSON, YAML, and Cisco’s DevNet APIs before diving into certification prep is a good starting point.
How 200-901 Certification Can Advance Your Career
The demand for automation skills in IT is growing. Companies now seek networking professionals who can code and software engineers who understand networking. This certification positions you as someone who can bridge the gap between software and network engineering.
Why Companies Prefer DevNet Certified Professionals
- Expands Your Skillset Beyond Traditional Networking – Employers prefer candidates who can work with both networking and software development.
- Opens New Career Paths – Many network engineers are shifting into DevOps, cloud automation, and infrastructure-as-code, and this cert provides a strong foundation for those roles.
- Higher Salary Potential – Professionals with expertise in network automation, API development, and programmable networking tend to earn more than those focused solely on traditional networking.
What Salary Can You Expect?
Salaries vary based on experience and industry, but Cisco DevNet Certified professionals generally earn:
- $80,000 – $95,000 per year for entry-level roles
- $95,000 – $130,000 per year for mid-level roles in network automation or DevOps
- $130,000+ for specialists in software-defined networking (SDN), cloud automation, or advanced API integrations
What to Expect in the Cisco 200-901 Exam
Unlike traditional networking exams that focus on commands and configurations, this exam evaluates your ability to develop, automate, and integrate applications using Cisco platforms.
Key Topics Covered in the Exam
Software Development and Design
- Understanding basic programming concepts, Python scripting, and software development tools
- Working with Git, REST APIs, JSON, and XML for data exchange
- Implementing network automation workflows
APIs and Network Automation
- Using Cisco’s APIs for automation and programmability
- RESTful API interactions with Cisco DNA Center, Meraki, Webex, and IOS XE
- Automating network configurations using APIs
Infrastructure and Networking Fundamentals
- Understanding network models, protocols, and basic network programmability
- Managing network devices using automation
Application Deployment and Security
- Deploying applications in cloud and on-prem environments
- Best practices for API security and network automation workflows
Cisco DevNet Ecosystem and Tools
- Leveraging Cisco DevNet resources for network automation
- Using sandbox environments for testing automation scripts
Exam Format and Structure
Since this is a technical exam, expect coding scenarios and practical use cases in addition to theory-based questions.
Exam Details
- Total Questions: 50-60
- Time Limit: 120 minutes
- Question Types: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, coding-based scenario challenges
- Passing Score: Typically around 750 out of 1000
Best Strategies for Passing the Cisco 200-901 Exam
The most effective way to prepare for this exam is a combination of theory, hands-on practice, and mock exams.
Best Study Methods That Work
Learn from Cisco’s Official DevNet Resources
Cisco offers free DevNet study materials, sandbox environments, and API documentation. These are essential for learning automation workflows and Cisco’s programmable networking concepts.
Get Hands-On Practice with Python and APIs
Since the 200-901 exam includes real-world coding scenarios, you should:
- Write Python scripts to interact with Cisco devices
- Use REST APIs to configure networking environments
- Experiment with Cisco’s DevNet sandbox labs
Take Practice Exams and Mock Tests
Mock tests help you get familiar with the exam structure, identify weak areas, and improve time management.
Engage with Networking and DevNet Communities
Joining online groups like:
- Cisco DevNet Community Forums
- LinkedIn groups for DevOps and network automation
- Reddit’s networking and Cisco DevNet discussions
can provide valuable study tips, insights, and hands-on project ideas.
Follow a Structured Study Plan
- Week 1-2: Study Cisco’s DevNet documentation, focus on Python scripting basics.
- Week 3-4: Work on REST API calls, JSON parsing, and automation workflows.
- Week 5-6: Take practice tests, review incorrect answers, and refine weak areas.
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