Farewell to the Cloud Titans: Retirement of the JNCIP-Cloud and JNCIE-Cloud Certification Exams

The ever-evolving landscape of the IT industry calls for continuous adaptation and innovation, which also extends to the realm of professional certifications. Juniper Networks has recently decided to retire two esteemed cloud certification exams: Cloud, Professional (JNCIP-Cloud) and Cloud, Expert (JNCIE-Cloud). This retirement marks the end of an era for these prestigious certifications, paving the way for new opportunities and pathways in the ever-expanding cloud domain. This article explores the retirement of these exams and delves into the impact it will have on the cloud certification landscape.

What Are the JNCIP-Cloud and JNCIE-Cloud Certification Exams?

The JNCIP-Cloud and JNCIE-Cloud certification exams are part of the Juniper Networks’ Cloud track that offers professionals an opportunity to showcase their proficiency in various cloud networking architectures, including multiclouds, software-defined networking, SD-WAN, and other cloud technologies.

The Cloud, Professional (JNCIP-Cloud) certification exam targets networking professionals who possess advanced expertise in cloud networking, theory, and industry best practices. It aims to evaluate candidates’ understanding and proficiency in configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting different aspects of Contrail Networking, including its integration with Kubernetes, OpenShift, vCenter, and service chaining. It equips professionals with the necessary skills to design and manage cloud environments, ensure secure and efficient connectivity, and optimize performance and scalability.

The Cloud, Expert (JNCIE-Cloud) certification exam, in its turn, is designed to validate the expertise of the candidates in cloud networking at an expert level. The topics covered in the JNCIE-Cloud certification test include orchestration, fabric automation with the use of Contrail Command, Monitory Analytics & Telemetry, Contrail Networking, and Contrail Security. By successfully passing this exam, the candidates demonstrate their ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot complex cloud networking solutions using Juniper Networks technologies, making them qualified to handle advanced responsibilities in cloud networking environments.

Why Does Juniper Networks Retire the JNCIP-Cloud and JNCIE-Cloud Certification Exams?

Juniper Networks has made the decision to retire the JNCIP-Cloud and JNCIE-Cloud certification exams to align its certification program with the evolving needs and demands of the industry. Several factors contribute to this retirement:

1. Technological Advancements: The field of cloud networking is constantly evolving, with new technologies, architectures, and best practices emerging regularly. Retiring older certifications allows Juniper Networks to make way for certifications that encompass the latest advancements in cloud networking, ensuring that professionals are equipped with the most relevant and up-to-date skills.
2. Industry Relevance: Juniper Networks aims to ensure that its certifications remain in sync with the industry’s requirements and trends. By retiring certifications that may become outdated over time, Juniper can introduce new certifications that align with the current needs of organizations and professionals in the cloud domain.
3. Enhanced Certification Program: Retiring certifications provides an opportunity for Juniper Networks to revamp and enhance its certification program. They can introduce new certifications that address the evolving challenges and technologies in cloud networking, offering professionals a more comprehensive and specialized learning path.
4. Skillset Focus: With the retirement of JNCIP-Cloud and JNCIE-Cloud, Juniper Networks can realign their focus on specific skillsets and technologies that are becoming more prominent in the cloud networking industry. This ensures that professionals are equipped with the skills that are in high demand and have the greatest impact on their careers.
5. Transition and Continuity: Juniper Networks understands the investment professionals have made in pursuing the JNCIP-Cloud and JNCIE-Cloud certifications. They provide transition paths and recommended training programs to support individuals in smoothly transitioning to the new certifications. This allows professionals to maintain the value of their previous certifications while adapting to the changing certification landscape.

In summary, Juniper Networks retires the JNCIP-Cloud and JNCIE-Cloud certifications to keep their certification program up-to-date, relevant, and aligned with the evolving cloud networking industry. This ensures that professionals can acquire the skills and knowledge that are most valuable in the current cloud landscape and stay at the forefront of industry trends.

Preparing for the Future

For individuals currently pursuing the JNCIP-Cloud or JNCIE-Cloud certifications, it is important to plan accordingly and complete the exams before their retirement date which is June 30, 2023. The retirement of these exams does not invalidate the achievements of those who have already earned these certifications. Active JNCIP and JNCIE-Cloud certifications will retain their validity for a period of three years from the date of earning or the last recertification. However, it’s important to note that these certifications cannot be recertified beyond the end-of-life date.

Juniper Networks will provide transition paths and recommended training programs to guide professionals toward the new certifications aligned with the evolving cloud landscape. It is crucial for aspiring cloud professionals to stay updated with the latest announcements and offerings from Juniper Networks to ensure their skill sets remain relevant and competitive.

Conclusion

The retirement of the JNCIP-Cloud and JNCIE-Cloud certification exams signifies a turning point in Juniper Networks’ cloud certification program. As the cloud landscape continues to evolve, it is imperative for professionals to adapt and stay ahead of the curve. The retirement of these exams opens the door to new opportunities and certifications that will equip individuals with the skills needed to excel in the dynamic cloud domain. Embrace the change, stay informed, and embark on a journey of continuous learning to unlock the full potential of your cloud expertise!