Overview of the Cisco 350-901 Exam

The Cisco 350-901 DEVCOR (Developing Applications Using Cisco Core Platforms and APIs) exam is a critical certification for IT professionals who specialize in software development and automation using Cisco technologies. This exam is part of the Cisco Certified DevNet Professional certification track and is designed to assess a candidate’s knowledge of software development, APIs, Cisco platforms, and infrastructure automation. Passing this exam demonstrates expertise in leveraging Cisco’s software development capabilities to create efficient and scalable network solutions.

The Cisco 350-901 exam focuses on several key domains, including:

  • Software Development and Design

  • Using APIs for Cisco Platforms

  • Cisco Infrastructure and Automation

  • Application Deployment and Security

  • Network Fundamentals

One crucial topic covered in the exam is Software-Defined Networking (SDN). Understanding SDN is vital for candidates because it plays a significant role in modern network automation, cloud computing, and network programmability.

Definition of SDN

Software-defined networking (SDN) is a revolutionary approach to network management that enables dynamic, programmatically efficient network configuration to improve performance and monitoring. Unlike traditional network architecture, which relies on hardware-based management, SDN separates the control plane from the data plane, allowing centralized control of the entire network infrastructure.

The fundamental characteristics of SDN include:

  1. Centralized Control: SDN centralizes network intelligence in a software-based controller, rather than distributing it across individual network devices.

  2. Programmability: SDN allows network administrators to program network behavior using open protocols, making automation more efficient.

  3. Abstraction: SDN abstracts the underlying hardware, making network management more flexible and scalable.

SDN provides numerous benefits, such as improved network efficiency, reduced operational costs, enhanced security, and easier deployment of network services. Due to its growing importance, SDN is an essential topic for candidates preparing for the Cisco 350-901 exam.

The Three Layers of SDN

To fully understand SDN, candidates should familiarize themselves with its three primary layers:

1. Application Layer

The Application Layer consists of business applications that use network services. These applications include network monitoring tools, security applications, and traffic management software. In SDN, applications communicate with the SDN controller via APIs to request specific network behavior or functions.

2. Control Layer

The Control Layer acts as the "brain" of SDN. It consists of SDN controllers that manage the data plane elements by processing requests from applications and forwarding instructions to network devices. The control plane ensures efficient routing, traffic management, and security policy enforcement. Examples of SDN controllers include:

  • Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI)

  • OpenDaylight

  • ONOS (Open Network Operating System)

3. Infrastructure Layer (Data Plane)

The Infrastructure Layer comprises physical and virtual network devices, such as routers, switches, and firewalls, which handle data traffic. In SDN, these devices rely on instructions from the SDN controller rather than making independent forwarding decisions. The Infrastructure Layer interacts with the Control Layer through protocols like OpenFlow, NETCONF, and REST APIs.

Understanding these layers is crucial for IT professionals preparing for the Cisco 350-901 exam, as it enables them to design and implement efficient network automation strategies using SDN principles.

Importance of Understanding SDN for the Cisco 350-901 Exam

Mastering SDN concepts is essential for passing the Cisco 350-901 exam for several reasons:

1. Network Automation and Programmability

The Cisco 350-901 exam focuses on developing applications using Cisco’s core platforms and APIs. Since SDN enables network automation through programmability, candidates must understand how to leverage SDN controllers and APIs to automate network tasks, optimize configurations, and enhance security.

2. Cisco's SDN Solutions

Cisco has developed various SDN solutions, such as:

  • Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI): A software-defined solution for data centers that enables policy-driven automation and security.

  • Cisco DNA Center: A centralized management solution for enterprise networks that simplifies network provisioning and monitoring.

  • Cisco SD-WAN: A cloud-delivered SDN solution that enhances network agility and security for branch offices.

Candidates should familiarize themselves with these solutions to effectively apply SDN principles in real-world scenarios.

3. Integration with DevOps and Cloud Computing

SDN plays a significant role in DevOps practices and cloud computing environments. The Cisco 350-901 exam evaluates candidates on their ability to integrate SDN with DevOps tools, such as Ansible, Terraform, and Kubernetes. Understanding SDN’s role in automating cloud networks and microservices deployments will give candidates a competitive edge in the exam and in their careers.

4. Enhancing Network Security

Security is a critical component of the Cisco 350-901 exam. SDN improves network security by allowing administrators to enforce security policies dynamically and respond to threats in real time. Candidates must understand how SDN enhances security through techniques like:

  • Microsegmentation: Isolating network segments to prevent lateral movement of threats.

  • Dynamic Access Control: Adjusting access controls based on real-time network conditions.

  • Threat Detection and Mitigation: Using SDN controllers to detect and respond to anomalies.

5. Practical Implementation in Exam Scenarios

The Cisco 350-901 exam includes hands-on tasks where candidates must demonstrate their ability to configure and troubleshoot network automation solutions. Knowledge of SDN concepts, APIs, and Cisco’s SDN solutions will help candidates excel in these practical scenarios.

Conclusion

The Cisco 350-901 exam is a crucial certification for IT professionals seeking to advance their careers in network automation and software development. A strong understanding of SDN is essential for passing the exam, as it forms the backbone of modern network automation and programmability.

By mastering SDN’s core concepts, including its three layers (Application, Control, and Infrastructure), candidates can effectively design, implement, and troubleshoot software-defined networks. Additionally, familiarity with Cisco’s SDN solutions, network security, and DevOps integration will further enhance a candidate’s ability to succeed in the exam and in real-world networking environments.

For those preparing for the Cisco 350-901 exam, DumpsBoss provides high-quality study materials, practice tests, and expert guidance to ensure a smooth certification journey. With comprehensive dumps and up-to-date exam questions, DumpsBoss equips candidates with the knowledge and confidence needed to pass the exam on the first attempt.

 

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Sample Questions for Cisco 350-901 Dumps

Actual exam question from Cisco 350-901 Exam.

Which option best describes the third layer in the SDN (Software-Defined Networking) architecture?

A. Data Plane – responsible for forwarding network traffic

B. Control Plane – manages routing and network policies

C. Application Plane – provides network services and applications

D. Infrastructure Layer – handles physical network devices