Arista Certification Guide: How to Get Certified and Boost Your Networking Career

Networking professionals seeking to enhance their careers and skill sets should consider obtaining an Arista certification. Arista Networks has gained prominence in cloud networking and software-driven networking solutions, making its certifications valuable for IT professionals. This guide will walk you through the certification process and how it can elevate your career prospects.

Why Choose Arista Certification?

Arista Networks specializes in high-performance networking solutions for data centers, cloud environments, and enterprises. Its certification programs validate expertise in networking technologies, automation, and security. Here are a few reasons to pursue Arista certification:

• Industry Recognition: Arista-certified professionals are in demand due to their specialized networking skills.

• Career Growth: Certification enhances your resume and increases job opportunities.

• Advanced Knowledge: The certification process deepens your understanding of cloud networking, automation, and software-defined networking (SDN).

Arista Certification Levels

Arista offers a structured certification path with different levels:

1. Arista Certified Engineering Associate (ACE-A)

• Entry-level certification covering fundamental networking concepts, Arista’s EOS (Extensible Operating System), and basic automation.

• Ideal for beginners and IT professionals looking to establish a foundation in Arista technologies.

2. Arista Certified Engineering Professional (ACE-P)

• Intermediate certification focusing on advanced routing, switching, network design, and automation.

• Suitable for network engineers aiming to solidify their expertise in Arista’s networking solutions.

3. Arista Certified Engineering Expert (ACE-E)

• Advanced-level certification covering in-depth topics on data center and cloud networking architectures.

• Recommended for experienced professionals seeking to master Arista’s technology and best practices.

Steps to Get Arista Certified

Step 1: Choose the Right Certification

Evaluate your current skill level and career goals to determine which Arista certification aligns with your objectives.

Step 2: Study the Exam Topics

Each certification has a defined syllabus. Focus on the official exam guide and Arista’s documentation, including:

• Networking fundamentals (for ACE-A)

• Arista’s EOS and automation tools

• Network troubleshooting and configuration

Step 3: Get Hands-on Experience

Practical experience with Arista hardware and software is crucial. Consider:

• Setting up a lab environment using Arista’s virtual or cloud-based solutions.

• Practicing configurations and network automation using EOS CLI and Python scripting.

Step 4: Enroll in Arista Training Courses

Arista offers training programs that provide in-depth coverage of exam topics. These courses are highly recommended to complement self-study.

Step 5: Take Practice Exams

Practice tests help familiarize you with the exam format and identify weak areas. Use Arista’s official practice tests or third-party resources.

Step 6: Schedule and Take the Exam

Once confident, register for the exam through Arista’s authorized testing partners. Ensure you are well-prepared and understand the exam format.

Benefits of Arista Certification

1. Career Advancement

• Certification opens doors to higher-paying roles and leadership positions in networking.

• Many companies prefer or require Arista-certified professionals.

2. Industry Credibility

• Proves your expertise in advanced networking and cloud-based solutions.

• Helps you stand out in a competitive job market.

3. Higher Earning Potential

• Arista-certified professionals often earn higher salaries compared to non-certified peers.

• Increased job security and opportunities for promotions.

Conclusion

Arista certification is a strategic investment for networking professionals looking to advance in the industry. By selecting the right certification, gaining hands-on experience, and thoroughly preparing for the exam, you can successfully earn your Arista certification and boost your networking career. Start your journey today and gain a competitive edge in the IT field!