The world of networking isn’t static, it evolves with technology, and Cisco’s certification portfolio is evolving right along with it. One of the biggest changes that every Cisco candidate needs to know about is the transformation of the DevNet Expert certification into CCIE Automation. This update is official, career-shaping, and scheduled to go live on February 3, 2026.
What’s Happening?
Cisco has announced a major rebrand and structural update to its certification tracks, and automation now sits proudly alongside classic tracks like Enterprise, Security, and Collaboration under the familiar CCNA → CCNP → CCIE framework. This strategic shift is designed to better reflect the reality of modern IT jobs – where automation, programmability, and AI-ready networking skills are essential.
Specifically:
- DevNet Expert will become → CCIE Automation
- DevNet Professional will become → CCNP Automation
- DevNet Associate will become → CCNA Automation
This is not just a name change, it represents Cisco’s confidence that automation skills are now foundational to enterprise networking.
When Does It Happen?
The changes will officially take effect on: February 3, 2026
> DevNet certifications (Associate, Professional, Expert) are renamed to CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE Automation.
> Existing certified holders will automatically be migrated to the new names.
> Updated blueprints and exam topics will be published ahead of time for new exams.
Why This Matters to You?
This transformation has huge ramifications for your learning path, career trajectory, and resume credibility. Here’s why:
1) Stronger Industry Recognition
The CCIE badge is one of the most respected credentials in the entire networking industry. Having CCIE Automation on your resume will immediately signal high-level expertise in automation and modern networking.Â
2) Future-Ready Skills
Automation is no longer optional, it’s a core part of real-world network operations. Employers are increasingly expecting automation capabilities, including tools like Python, Ansible, Terraform, APIs, and Infrastructure as Code. This update reinforces automation as a core competency.Â
3) Seamless Transition
If you’ve already passed DevNet Expert, your certification will automatically convert to CCIE Automation on the effective date — you don’t lose your progress.
What’s Changing (and What’s Staying the Same)
🔹 What’s Changing:
- The track name becomes Automation, aligning with CCNA/CCNP/CCIE branding.
- Some exam blueprints at the Associate and Professional levels are being updated.
- Certain legacy specialist exams will retire without direct replacements.
🔹 What’s Not Changing
- The CCIE Automation lab exam remains technically the same, the name changes but the depth of expertise required remains.
- Your current certifications do not disappear, they convert automatically to the new CCIE Automation titles.Â
How to Prepare?
If you’re planning for CCIE Automation, here’s how to get ready:
> Understand the automation core topics — Python scripting, APIs, telemetry, version control, automation tools.
> Study the latest exam blueprints as soon as Cisco publishes them (expected before Feb 2026).
> Build hands-on experience with tools like Ansible, Terraform, and automated workflows.
> Stay updated with official Cisco Learning Network resources.
Automation is where networking meets software and CCIE Automation proves you master both.
Final Thoughts
This certification update marks a new era in networking careers. The shift from DevNet to CCIE Automation is Cisco’s way of acknowledging that automation skills are no longer specialized, they’re essential.Â
Want further clarity on the latest CCIE Automation changes and how they impact your certification path?
At Octa Networks, we help professionals understand Cisco’s updates, choose the right timeline, and prepare with real-world automation labs.
Happy Reading 🙂
