SD-WAN Training vs CCNA DevNet: Which is Right for You?

If you are a networking professional, you must have heard that you need to continuously evolve with latest technologies to stay relevant to better salary, growth and everything. When we talk about moving ahead, you must have heard about the two of most evolving technologies. So, if you’re looking to advance your career in networking, you must have heard about the two most popular training programs: SD-WAN Training and CCNA DevNet Training. Both these training and certification are highly in demand and it is rightly so because of the increased Jobs, Higher Salaries and Future. 

So, the question is despite both offering valuable skills and certifications that can boost your professional development, which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll compare the two programs and help you decide which one best suits your career goals. 

In today’s fast-paced digital age, networking has become a critical component of any business. As more and more companies shift towards cloud-based services, SD-WAN (Software Defined Wide Area Network) has emerged as a popular networking solution. Meanwhile, Cisco’s CCNA DevNet certification is designed to equip developers and networking professional with the skills needed to create and manage applications in Cisco environments. But which training program should you choose? Let’s take a closer look at both options. 

What is SD-WAN? 

SD-WAN is a software-defined approach to managing wide area networks. It allows organizations to easily manage and optimize their networks, while reducing costs and increasing performance. SD-WAN solutions replace traditional routers with software-based tools, making it easier to deploy and manage network infrastructure across multiple locations. Let’s move on to understand he benefits of SD-WAN to help you decide. 

Benefits of SD-WAN Training 

SD-WAN training can help you develop a range of valuable skills, including: 

• Knowledge of SD-WAN architecture and components 
• Understanding of SD-WAN deployment models and design considerations 
• Familiarity with SD-WAN security and integration with existing network infrastructure 
• Ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues in SD-WAN environments 

By gaining these skills, you can become a valuable asset to any organization that utilizes SD-WAN technology. 

What is CCNA DevNet? 

The CCNA DevNet certification program is designed to teach developers and network engineers how to create and manage applications that run on Cisco platforms. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including software development, networking fundamentals, and automation. With a CCNA DevNet certification, you’ll have the skills to develop, deploy, and manage applications on Cisco networks. 

Benefits of CCNA DevNet 

CCNA DevNet training can help you develop the following skills: 

• Understanding of Cisco APIs and software development principles 
• Ability to use automation tools to manage Cisco networks 
• Familiarity with networking concepts and protocols 
• Knowledge of software development methodologies and practices 

With these skills, you can become a valuable asset to any organization that uses Cisco technologies. 

Key Differences between SD-WAN Training and CCNA DevNet 

While both SD-WAN training and CCNA DevNet certification offer valuable skills, there are some key differences between the two programs: 

• Focus

SD-WAN training is focused on network infrastructure and management, while CCNA DevNet is focused on application development and management. 

• Skills Developed

SD-WAN training focuses on developing skills related to managing and optimizing networks, while CCNA DevNet focuses on developing skills related to software development and automation. 

• Automation

While both technologies are somewhat related to network automation, CCNA DevNet is solely focused on it and SD-WAN is focused on SDN technology which is a part of network automation. 

• Programming

SD-WAN depends on uses software to both define and manage an area network while CCNA DevNet technology need knowledge of Python or a similar programming language. 

• Ease of learning

If we compare the ease of learning, you will find CCNA DevNet to be much more interesting to learn and easy to understand if you don’t have to fear of learning programming. 

Which Training Should You Choose? 

Deciding which Training to pursue ultimately depends on your career goals. If you’re interested in network infrastructure and management, SD-WAN training may be the better choice if you’re interested in network infrastructure and management. On the other hand, if you’re interested in software development and automation, CCNA DevNet may be a better fit. 

It’s worth noting that both SD-WAN training and CCNA DevNet Training can complement each other. If you’re already experienced in network infrastructure, SD-WAN training can help you develop skills in software-defined networking. Similarly, if you’re already experienced in software development, CCNA DevNet can help you develop skills in networking. 

Ultimately, the choice between SD-WAN training and CCNA DevNet certification depends on your career goals and interests. Both options offer valuable skills and can help you advance your career in networking. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, both SD-WAN training and CCNA DevNet training offer valuable skills for networking professionals. While SD-WAN training is focused on network infrastructure and management, CCNA DevNet is focused on application development and management. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your career goals and interests. Whichever option you choose, you can be confident that you’ll be developing valuable skills that can help you advance your career in networking. 

PyNet Labs offers comprehensive SD-WAN training that comes with unlimited lab access. You can also check out DevNet Associate Training by PyNet Labs that comes with free Python and Ansible basics training. 

FAQs 

• Is SD-WAN training difficult? 

SD-WAN training can be challenging, but with dedication and practice, anyone can learn the skills needed to manage and optimize SD-WAN environments. 

• What kind of job can I get with a CCNA DevNet certification? 

CCNA DevNet certification can open up a range of job opportunities, including software developer, network automation engineer, and network architect. 

• How long does it take to complete SD-WAN training? 

The duration of SD-WAN training depends on the program you choose. Some programs can be completed in a matter of weeks, while others may take several months to complete. 

• Is CCNA DevNet certification worth it? 

Yes, CCNA DevNet certification is highly valued in the networking industry and can help you advance your career as a developer or network engineer. 

• Can I pursue both SD-WAN training and CCNA DevNet certification? 

Yes, pursuing both options can help you develop a well-rounded set of skills in both network infrastructure and software development.