Practical Network Automation Certification
Enterprises across the globe are moving toward network automation and programmability as a way to reduce operational overhead, minimize human error, and deliver scalable, secure, and reliable connectivity. As a result, the demand for professionals skilled in network automation frameworks, APIs, and Python scripting is skyrocketing.
The Practical Network Automation Certification (PNAC) is designed specifically for this new era of networking. Unlike traditional certifications that focus only on manual configuration, PNAC equips learners with the ability to automate, orchestrate, and optimize networks using Python, APIs, and advanced automation tools.
This certification doesn’t just make you a better network engineer—it transforms you into a network automation engineer, capable of bridging the gap between networking and software development.
What is the Practical Network Automation Certification (PNAC)?
The PNAC certification is a vendor-neutral, skill-based training and certification program that prepares IT professionals to design, build, and automate enterprise-grade networks.
It combines three core modules into one comprehensive program:
Network Automation Fundamentals (DevNet Core) – Learn the essentials of APIs, Python for networking, and automation frameworks.
Advanced Network Programmability (DEVCOR-level skills) – Master advanced automation, orchestration, DevOps principles, and CI/CD pipelines in networking.
SD-WAN Automation with Python – Apply programmability concepts to modern SD-WAN environments for scalable, policy-driven automation.
To earn PNAC certification, learners must pass a three-stage evaluation process:
A 40-question theoretical exam to test concepts.
A hands-on lab exam where candidates build and automate networks.
A verbal mock interview to assess communication and real-world problem-solving.
Why PNAC Stands Out?
While traditional network certifications validate configuration knowledge, PNAC goes further by preparing you to:
Write Python scripts to automate network tasks.
Leverage APIs and SDKs to control networking devices and controllers.
Deploy and manage SD-WAN with automation for multi-site enterprises.
Adopt DevOps methodologies in networking, aligning with modern IT practices.
Communicate effectively in professional environments through structured interviews.
This makes PNAC not just a certification, but a career-transforming program for network engineers entering the age of automation.
Who Can Enroll in the PNAC Program?
The PNAC is designed for IT and networking professionals who want to expand their expertise into automation and programmability.
Ideal Learners Include:
Network Engineers & Administrators – wanting to upgrade their manual configuration skills to automation-driven approaches.
System Engineers – looking to integrate networking into DevOps workflows.
Cloud & Data Center Professionals – aiming to orchestrate hybrid environments with programmability.
Python Enthusiasts in Networking – interested in applying coding skills to infrastructure.
IT Professionals Transitioning to NetDevOps – bridging traditional IT with automation.
Career Switchers – moving from pure networking roles into high-demand automation jobs.
Students & Graduates – seeking cutting-edge, future-ready network skills.
Who Can Enroll in the PNAC Program?
The PNAC is designed for IT and networking professionals who want to expand their expertise into automation and programmability.
Ideal Learners Include:
Network Engineers & Administrators – wanting to upgrade their manual configuration skills to automation-driven approaches.
System Engineers – looking to integrate networking into DevOps workflows.
Cloud & Data Center Professionals – aiming to orchestrate hybrid environments with programmability.
Python Enthusiasts in Networking – interested in applying coding skills to infrastructure.
IT Professionals Transitioning to NetDevOps – bridging traditional IT with automation.
Career Switchers – moving from pure networking roles into high-demand automation jobs.
Students & Graduates – seeking cutting-edge, future-ready network skills.
Eligibility Criteria
The PNAC has no strict prerequisites, but the following background knowledge is highly recommended:
Basic Networking Knowledge – IP addressing, routing, switching, and protocols.
Familiarity with Python – variables, loops, functions, and basic scripting.
Understanding of APIs – basic knowledge of REST APIs and JSON.
Problem-Solving Mindset – willingness to combine networking and coding.
Even if you’re new to coding, PNAC will guide you step by step from Python basics to advanced automation in real-world networking environments.
Key Highlights of PNAC
Vendor-neutral program applicable across multiple platforms.
Three-stage evaluation process (theory + labs + interview).
One free retake per stage for life—reducing stress on learners.
Balanced curriculum combining Python, APIs, and SD-WAN automation.
Hands-on labs built for practical readiness.
Future-proof certification designed for the automation-driven IT landscape.
Why Choose Our Certification?
Course Curriculum of the Practical Network Automation Certification
The PNAC curriculum has been designed to transform learners from traditional network engineers into automation-first professionals. It balances software development practices with networking expertise, ensuring graduates are prepared to operate in modern NetDevOps environments.
Module 1: Network Automation Fundamentals (DevNet Core-Level Skills)
This module builds the foundation for network programmability. Learners begin by understanding how networks can be automated using Python scripting, APIs, and software development practices.
Key Topics Covered:
Introduction to Network Automation – why automation is critical in modern IT.
Python for Network Engineers – data structures, functions, error handling, and libraries (e.g., Netmiko, Paramiko, Requests).
APIs and JSON – fundamentals of REST APIs, HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE), authentication methods, and parsing JSON data.
Automation Frameworks – introduction to tools such as Ansible, Puppet, and SaltStack for managing configurations.
Version Control with Git – managing scripts and collaboration using Git and GitHub.
YAML and Data Modeling – working with structured data for automation scripts.
Introduction to Containers – using Docker for isolated automation environments.
Basic Automation Labs – writing scripts to automate device login, configuration backups, and interface changes.
By the end of this module, learners will have the confidence to replace repetitive manual tasks with automation scripts.
Module 2: Advanced Network Programmability (DEVCOR-Level Skills)
This module builds on the fundamentals and takes learners into enterprise-scale automation and DevOps for networking. It prepares you for large-scale deployments where automation must be secure, reliable, and integrated with IT workflows.
Key Topics Covered:
Software Development in Networking – modular code, APIs at scale, and secure coding practices.
CI/CD Pipelines for Networks – using Jenkins, GitHub Actions, or GitLab CI to automate network deployment.
Advanced Python Scripting – object-oriented programming, multithreading, API wrappers, and custom libraries for networking tasks.
Infrastructure as Code (IaC) – applying IaC principles with Ansible, Terraform, and Python to manage networks.
Telemetry and Monitoring – leveraging model-driven telemetry, gNMI, NETCONF, and RESTCONF APIs.
Automated Testing in Networks – validating configuration, availability, and performance using Python frameworks.
Microservices and Containers – deploying automation tools in containerized and Kubernetes environments.
Enterprise Use-Cases – automating data center fabric, WAN, and security policies.
Integration with Cloud – extending automation to AWS, Azure, and hybrid-cloud networking.
This module ensures learners are capable of orchestrating enterprise networks with modern DevOps and automation practices.
Module 3: SD-WAN with Python Automation
Software-defined WAN (SD-WAN) has revolutionized how organizations connect branches, cloud workloads, and data centers. In this module, learners apply automation skills specifically to SD-WAN environments, using Python and APIs to optimize performance and security.
Key Topics Covered:
Introduction to SD-WAN Concepts – controllers, edge devices, overlays, and policies.
Python for SD-WAN – interacting with SD-WAN controllers using Python scripts.
APIs for SD-WAN Management – retrieving, configuring, and automating SD-WAN policies with REST APIs.
Automating Security Policies – integrating security and QoS policies into SD-WAN deployments.
Dynamic Path Selection – automating bandwidth allocation and failover using APIs.
Multi-Cloud SD-WAN – applying automation to cloud on-ramps for AWS, Azure, and GCP.
SD-WAN Telemetry – retrieving performance and security data via APIs for monitoring.
SD-WAN Troubleshooting Labs – writing Python scripts to automate diagnosis and remediation.
Hands-On Labs – automating branch connectivity, deploying policies, and integrating with hybrid environments.
By the end of this module, learners will be able to design and implement automated SD-WAN solutions, making them highly sought-after in enterprises adopting hybrid and multi-cloud architectures.
Integrated Learning Approach
The strength of PNAC lies in how its modules complement one another:
Module 1 (Fundamentals) – Learn Python and APIs to automate tasks.
Module 2 (Advanced Programmability) – Scale those skills into enterprise-grade automation frameworks.
Module 3 (SD-WAN with Python) – Apply everything learned in real-world SD-WAN automation projects.
This progressive, layered approach ensures learners don’t just understand automation but can implement it across diverse enterprise scenarios.
Why This Curriculum is Unique
Covers Full Automation Spectrum – from simple scripts to enterprise-scale automation.
Balanced Between Coding and Networking – prepares both network engineers new to coding and Python developers entering networking.
Hands-On Labs – ensures skills aren’t theoretical but directly applicable.
Future-Proof – covers cloud, SD-WAN, and DevOps workflows together.
Certification Process of the Practical Network Automation Certification
The PNAC evaluation process is carefully designed to validate not just what you know, but what you can actually do. Employers want professionals who can write automation scripts, deploy CI/CD pipelines, and explain their solutions confidently—and PNAC ensures you are tested on all these fronts.
Stage 1: Theoretical Exam
The journey begins with a 40-question multiple-choice test designed to assess your foundational knowledge of network automation, Python scripting, APIs, and SD-WAN concepts.
Exam Format:
Type: Multiple-choice and scenario-based
Mode: Online, proctored
Duration: 60 minutes
Passing Score: Based on PNAC standards
Sample Topics Tested:
Python syntax and libraries for networking
REST APIs, JSON, and data models
Automation frameworks like Ansible and Terraform
CI/CD pipeline concepts in networking
Basics of SD-WAN architecture and policies
NETCONF, RESTCONF, and gNMI protocols
Principles of Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
This stage ensures candidates have the theoretical grounding to move into practical automation labs.
Stage 2: Online-Proctored Lab Exam
Once the theory exam is cleared, learners progress to the hands-on lab exam, where they demonstrate real-world automation skills in a virtualized lab environment.
Exam Format:
Type: Practical, scenario-based
Mode: Online, proctored
Duration: 90–120 minutes
Sample Lab Exercises:
Writing Python scripts to configure VLANs and routing automatically
Using REST APIs to push changes to network devices
Automating SD-WAN branch onboarding with Python
Deploying configurations at scale using Ansible playbooks
Building a mini CI/CD pipeline for automated network deployment
Extracting telemetry data from devices using NETCONF and RESTCONF
Writing troubleshooting scripts to detect and fix misconfigurations
Documenting changes and results for reporting
This lab ensures you can translate knowledge into working automation scripts and workflows.
Stage 3: Verbal Mock Interview
The final stage is a live online mock interview, where candidates explain technical solutions and walk through problem-solving scenarios.
Format:
Type: Online video interview
Duration: 20–30 minutes
Panel: Senior network automation experts
Evaluation Criteria:
Ability to explain automation workflows clearly
Communication of technical concepts to technical and non-technical audiences
Confidence in defending design or troubleshooting choices
Readiness for real-world interviews with enterprise employers
By completing this stage, PNAC-certified professionals prove they can not only build automation but also articulate it effectively in professional environments.
Retake Policy
To make the process stress-free, PNAC follows a lifetime retake policy:
One free retake per stage (theory, lab, or interview).
Further retakes available at a nominal cost.
This ensures learners can focus on improvement without fear of permanent failure.
Skills You Will Gain from PNAC
The Practical Network Automation Certification equips you with a holistic skill set that blends networking, programming, and DevOps principles.
1. Python Programming for Networks
Automating repetitive configuration tasks
Writing scripts to gather and analyze device data
Using libraries such as Netmiko, NAPALM, and Requests
2. API-Driven Network Automation
Working with REST APIs, JSON, and XML
Automating devices and controllers using NETCONF and RESTCONF
Consuming API data for monitoring and troubleshooting
3. Infrastructure as Code (IaC) & DevOps Skills
Writing Ansible playbooks for configuration management
Automating deployments using Terraform and CI/CD pipelines
Applying DevOps workflows in network environments
4. SD-WAN Automation Skills
Automating branch provisioning and policy deployment
Writing Python scripts to configure and monitor SD-WAN controllers
Automating traffic steering, failover, and cloud integration
5. Professional & Communication Skills
Presenting automation strategies to management and clients
Documenting automation workflows in structured reports
Performing confidently in interviews and collaborative environments
Career Opportunities After the Practical Network Automation Certification
The demand for network automation professionals is growing rapidly as enterprises transition from manual network management to programmable, software-defined infrastructures. With PNAC, you gain the skills to become a hybrid engineer who understands both networking fundamentals and software automation practices.
Top Career Roles for PNAC Graduates
1. Network Automation Engineer
Designs and implements automation workflows using Python, APIs, and orchestration frameworks to reduce manual tasks and improve network efficiency.
2. NetDevOps Engineer
Bridges the gap between network engineering and DevOps, managing CI/CD pipelines for network deployment, monitoring, and updates.
3. Infrastructure Automation Specialist
Focuses on Infrastructure as Code (IaC), using tools like Ansible and Terraform to manage large-scale enterprise and cloud networking environments.
4. SD-WAN Engineer
Manages and automates SD-WAN deployments, integrating cloud connectivity and dynamic routing with Python-driven automation.
5. Cloud Network Automation Engineer
Works with multi-cloud providers (AWS, Azure, GCP) to automate cloud-based network resources, ensuring scalability and security.
6. Network Solutions Architect (Automation Focused)
Designs end-to-end automation strategies for enterprises, including SD-WAN, hybrid cloud, and DevOps integration.
7. Python Developer for Networking
Specializes in writing Python scripts, automation APIs, and tools customized for enterprise networking needs.
8. Telecom Automation Engineer
Works in ISPs and telecom companies to automate WAN provisioning, traffic engineering, and customer services.
9. Security Automation Specialist
Automates firewall policies, intrusion detection rules, and compliance checks to strengthen network security.
10. IT Automation Consultant
Advises organizations on transitioning from manual to automated workflows, helping them reduce costs and operational overhead.
These roles highlight how PNAC graduates are equipped to work across traditional IT, telecom, cloud, and enterprise environments.
Global Demand for Network Automation Professionals
Network automation is becoming a strategic priority for companies across industries. According to recent studies:
70% of enterprises plan to automate at least half of their network tasks by 2027.
The market for network automation solutions is expected to exceed $30 billion by 2030.
Enterprises adopting SD-WAN and multi-cloud solutions require skilled automation engineers to maintain agility and security.
Key Drivers of Demand:
Cloud Adoption – automating cloud networking across AWS, Azure, and GCP.
Hybrid Work Models – requiring automated VPNs, firewalls, and traffic steering.
SD-WAN Growth – replacing MPLS with software-defined WAN, managed by automation.
5G and Edge Computing – requiring programmable networks with near real-time orchestration.
DevOps in Networking (NetDevOps) – aligning networking with software delivery pipelines.
With PNAC, you are positioned at the center of this transformation, making you a high-value professional in a rapidly evolving industry.
Salary Insights for PNAC-Certified Professionals
Because PNAC validates both networking expertise and automation skills, professionals certified in this field command salaries significantly higher than traditional network engineers.
Average Annual Salary Ranges by Country:
India: INR 12,00,000 – 22,00,000
Canada: CAD 95,000 – 130,000
United Kingdom: GBP 55,000 – 85,000
Germany: EUR 65,000 – 95,000
France: EUR 58,000 – 90,000
United States: USD 110,000 – 155,000
United Arab Emirates: AED 190,000 – 275,000
Singapore: SGD 95,000 – 135,000
Australia: AUD 105,000 – 150,000
Japan: JPY 8,500,000 – 12,500,000
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