Cisco’s new certs are a wake-up call for AI-era network engineers

• The CCNA is getting its first major change since 2019, built around four pillars: network infrastructure, troubleshooting and problem-solving, a security-first mindset, and understanding the role of AI in network management and operations.
• The updated CCNA will emphasize hands-on, experiential learning, with more labs and practical skills assessed on the exam to validate day-one job readiness in hybrid, AI-driven environments.
• At the expert level, Cisco is introducing a CCIE AI Deploy, Operate, and Optimize module that embeds an AI assistant into the practical exam to help with configuration, troubleshooting, and code creation.
• Cisco is also releasing no-cost “human skills” tutorials on Cisco U. focused on critical thinking and business communication to help engineers become better strategic advisors, not just technical operators.

The timelines are deliberately staged: New CCNA exam topics became available on May 20, 2026, and the refreshed exam is going live…