Course Overview

The DevNet Associate course introduces the methodologies and tools of modern software development, applied to the IT and Network operations. It covers a 360 view of the domain including microservices, testing, containers and DevOps, as well as securely automating infrastructures with Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). Students completing this course, gain practical, relevant, hands-on lab experience, including programming in Python, using GIT and common data formats (JSON, XML and YAML), deploying applications as containers, using Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines and automating infrastructure using code. The course prepares students for entry-level software development and infrastructure automation jobs and prepares them for the DevNet Associate certification exam.

Purpose

The Cisco DevNet Associate (DEVASC) course is designed for people who want to learn the knowledge and skills they need to work in network programming and automation. In addition to learning basic coding and networking concepts, learners will create REST API requests over HTTPS to securely integrate services.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Use basic Python programming and Linux skills.
• Implement a development environment using DevNet resources.
• Use software development and design best practices.
• Create REST API requests over HTTPS to securely integrate services.
• Explain the processes and devices that support network connectivity.
• Use current technologies to deploy and secure applications and data in a cloud environment.
• Compare software testing and deployment methods in automation and simulation environments.
• Compare Cisco platforms used for collaboration, infrastructure management, and automation.

This course contains numerous opportunities for practicing and assessing student skills through various types of assessments, labs and Packet Tracer activities.

Lab Equipment Requirements
This course requires no physical equipment other than the student’s lab PC. It uses several Virtual Machines (VMs) to create the lab experience.

Baseline Equipment Bundle:

• PCs – minimum system requirements o CPU: Intel Pentium 4, 2.53 GHz or equivalent with virtualization support
• Operating Systems, such as Microsoft Windows, Linux, and Mac OS
• 64-bit processor
• RAM: 8 GB
• Storage: 10 GB of free disk space
• Display resolution: 1024 x 768
• Language fonts supporting Unicode encoding (if viewing in languages other than English)
• Latest video card drivers and operating system updates
• Internet connection for lab and student PCs

Student PC Software:

• Oracle VM VirtualBox Manager (version 6.1 or later)
• DEVASC VM (Downloadable from the Course)
• CSR1000V VM (Instructor download and distribution)
• Packet Tracer Network Automation Edition (pre-installed on the DEVASC VM)

Course Outline

1. Course Introduction
2. The DevNet Developer Environment
3. Software Developments and Design
4. Understanding and Using APIs
5. Network Fundamentals
6. Application Deployments and Security
7. Infrastructures and Automation
8. Cisco Platforms and Development

Prerequisites

Learners are expected to have the following skills:

• Basic coding skills in any object-oriented programming language (loops, if/else, objects, etc.)
• Basic understanding of computer networks (CCNA ITN level)
• Basic PC operating system navigation skills
• Basic internet usage skills
• Familiarity with Cisco Packet Tracer

Target Certifications

This course aligns with the Cisco Certified DevNet Associate (DEVASC) certification. Candidates need to pass the 200-901 DEVASC exam to achieve the Cisco Certified DevNet Associate certification.