Alternatives to JNCIS-DevOps: Specialist-Level Network Automation Credentials Reviewed

Cisco's counterpart and a lab-based Ansible assessment

JNCIS-DevOps validates platform automation, gRPC, Ansible, and Junos scripting at the specialist level. If you want to see other routes, the reviewed options include a Cisco counterpart for working automation engineers and a Red Hat credential in which candidates complete real network automation tasks.

JNCIS-DevOps alternativesHPE Juniper Networking Automation and DevOps, Specialist (JNCIS-DevOps)Search Certifications by Filters

Why compare

Alternatives to JNCIS-DevOps for automation engineers

The reviewed options differ by reason. One is a like-for-like Cisco automation path built around infrastructure as code and secure operations. The other earns attention for its practical assessment, which asks candidates to complete network tasks instead of written questions.

Starting point

Reference facts

HPE Juniper Networking Automation and DevOps, Specialist (JNCIS-DevOps)

HPE Juniper Networking

Level: Specialty
Credential type: Professional certification
Exam type: Written
Study time: 90-180h
Known price: $300

Full certification details

Comparable

Comparable options to HPE Juniper Networking Automation and DevOps, Specialist (JNCIS-DevOps)

Credentials aimed at a similar goal and level, from another angle or provider. A similar purpose does not make them interchangeable.

Cisco

CCNP Automation

Cisco's professional automation path

CCNP Automation covers automation architecture, infrastructure as code, operations, and secure automation systems on Cisco platforms, making it the natural Cisco counterpart for working automation engineers.

Who it suits

Right for engineers in Cisco-centered networks who want a broader automation credential next to Juniper's specialist-level option.

Key differences

It looks at automation design and operations at an architectural level, with AI in automation included, whereas the Juniper credential focuses on gRPC, Ansible, and Junos scripts.
The certification is built from a core exam plus a concentration, so it is a larger commitment than a single specialist exam.
Cisco platform knowledge is assumed, which makes it less useful in teams whose automation targets Junos devices.

Level: Professional
Assessment: Written
Study time: 130-260h
Listed from: $300

Hands-on

Hands-on alternatives to HPE Juniper Networking Automation and DevOps, Specialist (JNCIS-DevOps)

Credentials assessed through practical, lab-based, or multi-part exams, for people who want to show applied ability.

Red Hat

Red Hat Certified Specialist in Ansible Network Automation

Ansible competence shown in a lab

Red Hat Certified Specialist in Ansible Network Automation turns the Ansible topic into the whole assessment, with candidates completing real network automation tasks rather than answering written questions.

Who it suits

Suited to engineers who want to prove Ansible capability in a practical setting and whose networks are not limited to Junos.

Key differences

Hands-on task completion replaces a written exam, so readiness depends on lab practice and fluency with playbooks.
Ansible is the only subject, while the Juniper credential also covers gRPC and Junos automation scripts.
It works across vendors, which broadens where the skill applies but gives up Junos-specific depth.

Level: Specialty
Assessment: Practical
Study time: 85-155h
Listed from: Not listed

Side by side

How the options compare on the record

Structured facts from each certification record, with HPE Juniper Networking Automation and DevOps, Specialist (JNCIS-DevOps) as the reference row. Prices and exam details change, so check the provider before deciding.

Certification	Compared for	Level	Assessment	Study time	Listed from
HPE Juniper Networking Automation and DevOps, Specialist (JNCIS-DevOps) HPE Juniper Networking	Reference	Specialty	Written	90-180h	$300
CCNP Automation Cisco	Comparable	Professional	Written	130-260h	$300
Red Hat Certified Specialist in Ansible Network Automation Red Hat	Hands-on	Specialty	Practical	85-155h	Not listed

Next steps

Narrowing your choice beyond JNCIS-DevOps

Decide on your goal first: Junos-centric automation, a Cisco path, or Ansible practice. Then weigh assessment style, specialism, and provider fit. Open the detail pages that fit, and continue comparing in certification search.

Search automation certifications

Put JNCIS-DevOps in Context Before You Commit

For JNCIS-DevOps, use the exam scope, preparation demands, cost context, and learning outcomes as comparison points. Then review certifications aimed at similar roles or subject areas to see whether another path better matches your experience, tools, and professional priorities.

Explore the JNCIS-DevOps certification