In the ever-evolving world of networking, certifications remain a powerful way to validate your skills and advance your career. Arista Networks, a leading name in software-driven cloud networking, offers a range of certifications tailored to help IT professionals master their cutting-edge technologies. But with several options available, you might wonder: which Arista certification should you pursue? This blog will break down the certifications, what they cover, and how to decide which one aligns with your career goals.
Arista Networks provides certifications under the "Arista Certified Engineering" (ACE) program. The program is designed to test your expertise in deploying and managing Arista's network solutions, including their Extensible Operating System (EOS). These certifications are ideal for network engineers, system architects, and IT professionals who want to deepen their knowledge of modern networking concepts and technologies.The key certifications in the ACE program are:
Each certification builds on a specific area of expertise and comes with its own prerequisites and focus areas. Let’s dive deeper into each.
ACE-A is the entry-level certification in the Arista program, designed for individuals who are new to Arista’s technology or networking in general. This certification provides a foundational understanding of Arista’s EOS, as well as the basic principles of modern networking.
If you’re a beginner looking to establish a strong foundation in Arista technologies, the ACE-A certification is the perfect starting point. It’s also a great choice for professionals transitioning to Arista from other platforms.
The ACE-P certification is a more advanced credential for experienced network engineers who want to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of Arista’s EOS and networking solutions. It’s designed to validate your ability to deploy, manage, and troubleshoot Arista’s solutions in complex network environments.
If you’re a mid-level or senior network engineer aiming to work on large-scale or complex Arista deployments, the ACE-P certification will showcase your expertise and elevate your professional profile.
As the name suggests, ACE-SD focuses on software-defined networking (SDN), a key aspect of modern data center and cloud networking. This certification covers how to leverage Arista’s platforms for SDN and automation.
Professionals looking to specialize in SDN or those working with cloud-based or containerized infrastructures should consider the ACE-SD certification. It’s especially valuable for engineers focused on automation and next-generation networking.
Each certification aligns with industry trends. SDN and automation, in particular, are rapidly gaining traction, making ACE-SD a future-proof choice for many professionals.
Arista certifications offer a clear path to mastering cutting-edge networking technologies. Whether you're just starting out or looking to specialize in advanced topics like SDN, the ACE program has something for everyone. Take the time to assess your career goals and expertise before selecting the certification that’s right for you. Investing in the right Arista certification can open doors to exciting opportunities and position you as a leader in the networking field.