Ep 133 - An Expert's Perspective on Network Automation and the Cisco DevNet Expert Certification
Nov 22, 2023
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Meet Ben Schuster, a Cisco Certified DevNet Expert, as he shares insights on network automation tools like NautoBot, Ansible, and Git. Learn about revamping networks, challenges of the DevNet Exam, and tips for effective study. Discover his wisdom on automation, and essential resources for exam prep. Dive into his journey from the military to networking, and the importance of small wins in automation journeys.
DevNet expert exam required unique self-study due to limited resources.
Understanding blueprint details crucial for tailoring study focus and approach.
Experimenting with study tools like GitLab and Azure DevOps aids in efficient studying.
Deep dives
Challenges of Studying for the DevNet Expert Exam
Preparing for the DevNet expert exam presented unique challenges as there were limited study resources available initially. Unlike traditional exams with established study materials, this exam required self-study and exploration. The complexity of the exam, covering vast knowledge areas like software development, cloud solutions, and automation, made the study process intense. Understanding the blueprint was crucial to decipher the exam objectives and differentiate action verbs like design, create, troubleshoot, and consume to tailor study focus.
Blueprint as a Study Guide
The blueprint for the exam served as a detailed study guide, outlining specific areas to focus on and guiding the study approach. Each section of the blueprint provided explicit direction on the type of knowledge and skills needed for the exam. Understanding the language used in the blueprint, such as action verbs like recommend, create, and troubleshoot, was key to aligning study methodologies with the expected exam content. Leveraging the blueprint enabled a structured study plan and helped in interpreting the exam requirements effectively.
Varied Study Approaches and Tools
Studying for the DevNet expert exam involved experimenting with different study approaches and tools to streamline the process. Initially using Excel for note-taking and organizing information, the study process evolved to incorporate GitLab for tracking progress and managing study materials. Transitioning to Azure DevOps for a more structured study plan, such as employing issue tracking and milestone setting, facilitated a more organized and efficient study routine. Exploring and adapting various study tools helped in managing the complexity of the exam content and maintaining focus throughout the study period.
Effective Study Methods Using Project Management and Tools
The speaker discusses a methodical approach to studying by creating a project plan in Microsoft Project and linking it to Azure DevOps. By organizing tasks on Kanban boards and documenting notes in the wiki, the speaker efficiently tracks study progress. By tagging issues and maintaining comprehensive notes, the speaker ensures a structured study approach. Despite initial setup efforts, the use of Azure DevOps and project planning aids in maintaining study focus and progression.
Balancing Study Intensity and Personal Life for Certification Prep
The conversation delves into the dedication required for lengthy and intense study sessions, highlighting challenges of balancing study commitments with personal life. The speaker shares a rigorous study routine that involved long hours of study daily, even conflicting with work commitments. The need for strong family support and understanding during intense study periods is emphasized. Reflecting on study strategies for certification exams, the speaker discusses the importance of efficient study methods, recognizing personal study limitations, and recalibrating study approaches for optimal performance.
This episode was originally recorded March 23, 2023
Meet Ben Schuster, a man who's journeyed from the Air Force to the cutting-edge world of network automation, and the first to bear the title of Cisco Certified DevNet Expert in 2023. His background, inspirations, and career transitions light up our conversation like a well-configured network. As he reminisces about his father's influence, you'll learn about his initial fascination with networking and his transition into classified networks.
Ready to untangle the mysteries of network automation? Ben's got you covered! He'll walk you through the complexities of automation tools such as NautoBot, Ansible, and Git. Plus, he'll share his insights into the challenges of revamping a network, from organizational politics to customer-specific approaches. Our chat then dives into a comparison between the DevNet and CCNA, giving you a crystal clear idea of which path suits you best.
Lastly, if you're gearing up for the DevNet Expert Exam, Ben's invaluable tips and experiences are not to be missed. From understanding blueprints to studying effectively to managing the unique challenges of the exam, Ben's got golden nuggets of wisdom to share. He stresses on the need for a 'source of truth' for network configurations and the benefits of automation based on that. He also suggests must-read resources and provides a sneak-peek into the type of questions you can expect in the exam. Be prepared to be inspired and informed by a true expert in network automation!
Ben's Book Recommendation Model Drive Devops by Steven Carter and Jason King - https://amzn.to/4701dxL
