Arista Certified Engineer (ACE): A Game Changer for Your Networking Career

In today’s rapidly evolving IT landscape, network engineers must constantly adapt to stay relevant. With the rise of cloud networking, automation, and software-defined infrastructures, traditional networking skills are no longer enough. That's where the Arista Certified Engineer (ACE) program comes in—a certification track that is quickly becoming a career game-changer for professionals aiming to stand out in the networking field.

Arista Networks has earned a reputation for leading the charge in next-generation data center and cloud networking. Their software-driven approach and highly scalable network solutions have been adopted by top enterprises, hyperscalers, and financial institutions worldwide. As demand for Arista's products grows, so does the need for skilled professionals who can deploy, manage, and optimize their technologies.

Here’s why becoming an Arista Certified Engineer (ACE) can transform your networking career in 2025 and beyond.

1. Aligned with Modern Networking Demands

The ACE certification program is designed specifically for engineers working in modern, cloud-first environments. Unlike older certification paths focused on traditional routing and switching, ACE emphasizes programmability, automation, scalability, and software-defined networking (SDN)—skills that are now critical in the industry.

Arista’s EOS (Extensible Operating System) is built on Linux and supports automation through APIs, scripting, and third-party tools. Through the arista certification program, engineers gain hands-on experience with EOS, making them valuable assets in organizations moving toward automated and cloud-based infrastructures.

2. Three-Tiered Certification Path for Every Level

The ACE program offers a clear, progressive structure that caters to engineers at all stages of their careers:

• ACE-A (Associate): Ideal for beginners or professionals transitioning into Arista technologies. Covers EOS basics, CLI usage, and core networking concepts.

• ACE-P (Professional): Designed for experienced engineers who manage Arista deployments. Focuses on advanced configuration, troubleshooting, automation, and real-world scenarios.

• ACE-E (Expert): The highest level, tailored for senior engineers and architects. This certification validates deep expertise in designing and implementing complex Arista-based networks.

This tiered system allows engineers to develop their skills step-by-step while demonstrating competence at every stage of their career.

3. Career Advancement and Higher Salary Potential

Earning the ACE certification can significantly improve your career trajectory. As more enterprises adopt Arista technology, they seek engineers who are certified and capable of optimizing their network infrastructure.

Certified professionals often command higher salaries and qualify for more advanced roles such as Network Automation Engineer, Data Center Specialist, or Cloud Network Architect. In 2025, job postings increasingly list Arista certification as a preferred or required qualification, particularly in high-paying sectors like finance, tech, and cloud services.

4. Hands-On Learning and Practical Relevance

Unlike some certification programs that emphasize theory, the ACE program places a strong focus on real-world application. Through labs, simulations, and hands-on configuration exercises, candidates learn by doing—preparing them for tasks they'll actually perform on the job.

This practical approach ensures that ACE-certified engineers are not only knowledgeable but also ready to deliver results in live environments. It also boosts confidence when troubleshooting or designing complex network architectures.

5. Growing Recognition and Community Support

The ACE certification is gaining recognition across the networking community. Arista’s strategic partnerships with major cloud platforms and its continued expansion into enterprise environments have boosted the visibility and value of the ACE credential.

In addition, the support ecosystem is growing. Online training platforms, discussion forums, and Arista’s own resources make it easier than ever to prepare for the certification and connect with peers.

Final Thoughts

The Arista Certified Engineer (ACE) program is more than just another certification—it’s a career accelerator. In a time when automation, SDN, and cloud networking are reshaping IT infrastructure, ACE equips professionals with the skills that are most in demand.

Whether you're starting your networking journey or looking to elevate your role, getting ACE certified can open doors to exciting, high-paying opportunities and give you a competitive edge in a fast-changing industry.