In today’s complex network environments, automation isn’t just an advantage—it’s a necessity. The latest 2024 Autocon Automation Survey confirms what network engineers already know: Python dominates the field of network automation. This trend has been consistent for years, dating back to the 2016 NetDevOps Survey, which already showed 88% of respondents using Python.
For years, our Programming for Network Engineers | PRNE course has been the starting point for countless professionals seeking a network-centric Python class. Now we’re excited to introduce the next step in your automation journey: Intermediate Python for Network Engineers | IPYNE. This brand-new course is available now in a self-paced Cisco U. Learning Path or as instructor-led training (ILT) through our authorized Cisco Learning Partners.
Go from theory to practice
IPYNE bridges the gap between foundational knowledge and deep programmability skills. You’ll gain hands-on experience with Python in real-world use cases from day 0 to day 2, including managing device inventories, building and deploying configuration templates, and testing network performance, across platforms such as IOS XE, Meraki, and ThousandEyes.
Throughout the course, you’ll learn to:
- Leverage powerful Python libraries like Netmiko and PyATS for scalable device-level automation.
- Construct reusable, object-oriented scripts and build simple web interfaces with Flask.
- Master REST API automation to streamline platform-based network monitoring and configuration.
- Discover how DevOps tooling, such as CI/CD pipelines, and emerging technologies, such as large language models (LLMs), can enhance your automation workflows.
By the end, you’ll be equipped to design efficient and reliable automation solutions that reduce manual effort and dramatically improve network agility.
What makes IPYNE unique?
- Lifetime access to code: All code samples from the labs are available on GitHub, creating a permanent reference library for your future projects—even after you complete the course.
- Real-world problem solving: The course includes unique DIY (Do-It-Yourself) coding challenges designed to solidify your skills through unguided, practical application.
Is IPYNE right for you?
This training is perfect for network engineers, administrators, and systems engineers looking to deepen their skills in programmability. It’s the ideal next step if you’ve:
- Finished the fundamental Programming for Network Engineers | PRNE Learning Path in Cisco U., and want to take your Python skills further.
- Completed the Cisco Networking Academy Python Essentials 1 course.
- Learned a little Python on your own and are ready to automate your network.
Earn 29 Continuing Education credits
Plus, while not a direct certification prep course, IPYNE equips you with the hands-on coding skills essential for the CCNP and CCIE Automation exams and earns you 29 Continuing Education (CE) credits toward recertification.
Learn your way
Advance your automation skills on your terms. Choose the format that fits your schedule and learning style.
Learning Path in Cisco U. | Find an ILT Partner
What’s next on the automation horizon?
And there’s more! We’re also excited to announce the upcoming partial release of our updated CCNP Automation courses: AUTOCOR, ENAUTO, and DCNAUTO. The first tracks of these courses will be available on Cisco U. later this month, starting November 20, 2025. These pre-alpha early releases, complete with hands-on labs, will be available to Cisco U. All Access subscribers.
Planning to be at Autocon 4 in Austin, TX, from November 17-21? Visit the Cisco booth to discuss these new courses or get help with your network automation use case.
Cisco at AutoCon 4: AI, Automation, and the Human Side of ‘Ops’
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