As the demand for networking professionals continues to grow, certifications play a crucial role in showcasing expertise and improving career prospects. Among the many networking certifications available, Arista Networks certifications stand out due to their focus on cloud networking, automation, and modern data center technologies. But which Arista certification is right for your career? Let’s explore the different paths and how they align with your professional goals.
Understanding the Arista Certification Path
Arista Networks offers a well-structured certification path catering to beginners, intermediate professionals, and advanced networking experts. The main certification levels include:
- Arista Certified Engineering Associate (ACE-A) – Entry-Level
- Arista Certified Engineering Professional (ACE-P) – Intermediate
- Arista Certified Engineering Expert (ACE-E) – Advanced
Each of these certifications is designed to help professionals validate their knowledge of Arista’s cutting-edge networking technologies, such as Arista EOS (Extensible Operating System), VXLAN, EVPN, network automation, and cloud networking.
1. Arista Certified Engineering Associate (ACE-A)
Best for: Beginners, network engineers, and IT professionals looking to start their journey with Arista.What You Will Learn:
- Basics of Arista EOS
- Network fundamentals, switching, and routing concepts
- Introduction to network automation with Arista CloudVision
- Configuring and troubleshooting basic networking setups
Career Impact:
- Helps entry-level network engineers and IT professionals break into the networking industry
- Provides foundational knowledge to build upon for advanced certifications
2. Arista Certified Engineering Professional (ACE-P)
Best for: Experienced network engineers, system administrators, and professionals aiming for specialized networking skills.What You Will Learn:
- Advanced Arista EOS configurations
- VXLAN and EVPN for modern data center networking
- Network automation and scripting with Python, Ansible, and CloudVision
- Security best practices in Arista environments
Career Impact:
- Enhances qualifications for mid-level networking roles
- Prepares professionals for network automation and cloud networking positions
- Increases job opportunities and earning potential
3. Arista Certified Engineering Expert (ACE-E)
Best for: Senior network architects, consultants, and IT leaders seeking mastery in Arista networking solutions.What You Will Learn:
- Deep dive into data center and cloud network architecture
- Advanced troubleshooting and performance optimization
- Scalable automation and orchestration strategies
- Network security and segmentation at an enterprise level
Career Impact:
- Recognized as an industry expert in Arista networking solutions
- Opens doors to leadership roles in cloud networking and data centers
- Maximizes salary potential and career growth opportunities
Choosing the Right Arista Certification for You
The right certification depends on your current skill level, job role, and career aspirations. Here’s a quick guide:
- If you’re new to networking → Start with ACE-A to build foundational skills.
- If you have networking experience and want to specialize → Go for ACE-P to enhance automation and cloud networking expertise.
- If you are an advanced networking professional → Pursue ACE-E to establish yourself as a networking expert.
How to Prepare for Arista Certifications
To successfully earn an Arista certification, follow these steps:
- Review the official exam blueprint – Understand the exam objectives and topics covered.
- Gain hands-on experience – Use Arista vEOS-Lab and CloudVision to practice configurations and automation.
- Leverage official Arista training – Enroll in Arista’s training courses for structured learning.
- Join online study groups – Engage with Arista forums, Reddit communities, and LinkedIn groups.
- Take practice exams – Use mock tests to assess your readiness before the actual exam.
Conclusion
Arista certifications provide networking professionals with the expertise needed to thrive in cloud and data center environments. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance to a senior role, choosing the right Arista certification path can significantly impact your career growth. Evaluate your experience level, set clear career goals, and start your journey towards Arista certification today!
