Introduction to Part 3
As we move into Part 3 of our series on the Cisco DevNet Associate Exam, we’re stepping into a more specialized realm of Cisco’s vast array of platforms and APIs. This section of your journey is dedicated to deepening our understanding of Cisco’s network management, compute management, collaboration platforms, security solutions, and device-level APIs. These topics are not only essential for the DevNet exam but are also crucial for professionals looking to excel in network automation and development using Cisco technologies.
Key Areas of Focus
- Cisco Network Management Platforms and APIs: We’ll explore platforms like Meraki, Cisco DNA Center, ACI, Cisco SD-WAN, and NSO, discussing their capabilities and how they fit into modern network management paradigms.
- Cisco Compute Management Platforms and APIs: We’ll dive into the functionalities offered by UCS Manager, UCS Director, and Intersight, and how they revolutionize compute resource management.
- Cisco Collaboration Platforms and APIs: Understanding the features and API integrations of Webex Teams, Webex devices, and Cisco Unified Communication Manager, including their AXL and UDS interfaces, will be our focus.
- Cisco Security Platforms and APIs: We’ll cover how platforms like Firepower, Umbrella, AMP, ISE, and ThreatGrid contribute to a robust security infrastructure.
- Device Level APIs and Interfaces for IOS XE and NX-OS: Here, we’ll delve into the specific APIs and dynamic interfaces available in Cisco’s IOS XE and NX-OS.
- Model Driven Programmability: Concepts of YANG, RESTCONF, and NETCONF in a Cisco environment will be demystified.
- Practical Code Construction: We will learn to construct code for specific operations using Cisco API documentation, tackling real-world tasks.
Importance of Practical Application
Given the technical nature of these topics, hands-on experience is invaluable. This is where the Cisco DevNet Sandbox becomes an indispensable resource. The Sandbox offers a safe, virtual environment where you can experiment with and test various Cisco technologies without the need for physical hardware. It’s a perfect platform for practicing the concepts learned and for preparing specifically for the practical aspects of the DevNet exam.
Up Next: Stay tuned as we first dive into “3.1 Construct a Python script that uses a Cisco SDK given SDK documentation,” where we’ll blend coding skills with Cisco’s technology-specific tools to create impactful network automation scripts.
For a comprehensive guide and additional resources, don’t forget to check out our series overview: Navigating the DevNet Associate Exam (200–901): A Study Series.
