Introduction
In today’s ever-evolving landscape of networking and information technology, the journey towards expertise is paved with Aruba certifications that not only validate skills but also define careers. Amidst this backdrop, the Aruba Certified Edge certification track emerges as a trailblazing route, distinguished by its multifaceted approach. This blog embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the Aruba Certified Edge certification track—a path that not only demands a profound understanding of specific technical domains but also challenges individuals to master at least three out of the four certifications—mobility, switching, security, and design—at every level of the journey, whether it’s associate, professional, or expert. Conventionally, specialization has been the cornerstone of career growth in the IT industry. However, the Aruba Certified Edge track dares to defy this norm by encouraging professionals to widen their scope.
It transcends the limitations of compartmentalized expertise and instead fosters a panoramic comprehension of networking architecture. Come along as we plunge into the importance of this unique certification track, uncovering its potential to not just reshape, but completely redefine your career path in the dynamic fields of networking and IT.At the core of the Aruba Certified Edge certification track lies the ethos of holistic proficiency. This isn’t just about mastering one facet of networking; it’s about becoming a well-rounded specialist who can seamlessly navigate through the complexities of mobility, switching, security, and design. The journey demands dedication, determination, and a passion for continuous learning. But the rewards are equally unparalleled. As the industry moves towards converged networking solutions, professionals armed with expertise in multiple areas will find themselves at the forefront of innovation and adaptation.
Important Updates: Transition Period Ahead
The Edge Associate, Professional, and Expert recertification examinations is going for deactivation effective October 31, 2023. Following this date, there will be no introduction of new or revised Edge exams. Nevertheless, individuals will retain the option to extend the validity of their Mobility, ClearPass, Design, and Switching certifications through the employment of the Edge Associate, Professional, and Expert recertification assessments until October 30, 2023. Upon the arrival of October 31, all holders of Edge Associate, Professional, and Expert certifications in good standing will be automatically conferred with a permanent Edge recognition status. It’s important to note that HPE Aruba Networking will continue to acknowledge your Edge credential indefinitely; however, the foundational certifications (Mobility, ClearPass, Design, and Switching) will retain validity solely until their respective expiration dates.
Pathway for the Aruba Edge Certification
Aruba Certified Edge Associate (ACEA)
Uniquely tailored to resonate with networking IT professionals who have actively immersed themselves in the intricate world of Aruba products and services, the Aruba Certified Edge Associate (ACEA) certification symbolizes a journey towards amplified expertise. Positioned within the Associate skill level, ACEA has been meticulously make to cater to individuals who have ventured into the dynamic realm of Aruba technologies, accumulating a minimum of six months of immersive hands-on experience. For those who have ventured into the intricate domain of Aruba’s offerings, the ACEA certification journey offers a structured pathway for enhancing their understanding and capabilities. The certification signifies a transition from initial explorations to a more comprehensive grasp of Aruba technologies.
The ACEA certification journey stands as a testament to the commitment of networking IT professionals who are driven to solidify their foundation in Aruba technologies. Beyond the rudimentary interactions, the certification journey propels individuals towards a more profound comprehension of Mobility, Design, Switching, ClearPass, and Security domains. It’s not just about the acquisition of knowledge; it’s about cultivating a holistic understanding that lays the groundwork for meaningful contributions.
Prerequisites
To qualify for the Aruba Certified Edge Associate certification, candidates need to successfully obtain a minimum of three out of the five Aruba associate-level certifications (ACMA, ACCA, ACDA, ACSA,
ACA-Network Security, ACA-Campus Access). Upon achieving the milestone of the third associate-level certification, candidates will be awarded the distinguished Aruba Certified Edge Associate certification. Aspiring candidates are encouraged to embark on a journey of accumulating associate-level certifications within the Aruba ecosystem.
Recertifying Aruba Certified Edge Associate – HPE6-A74 (Inactive November 1, 2023)
To recertify, excel in the Aruba Certified Edge Associate written exam through Pearson VUE. This exam tailors its focus to the specific domains you’ve dedicated yourself to. As the exam commences, you’ll be prompted to choose three out of five technology areas for assessment (mobility, switching, ClearPass, design, Campus Access, or security). The exam comprises three sections, and successfully completing each section is essential to passing the exam.
Securing or renewing the certification naturally extends the validity of all your active Associate level certifications, aligning them with the expiration date from when the Edge Associate achievement was last earned.
After fulfilling the requirements
In the event of certification renewal through successful completion of the Edge certification or the Edge recertification pathway. The process extends the validity of all certifications achieved at that specific level and any lower levels attained. To provide an illustration. Obtaining an ACEA certification renewal would concurrently extend the validity of certifications. Such as ACMA, ACSA, ACCA, ACDA, ACA-Network Security, ACA-Campus Access, and related Associate level certifications. It’s essential to note that the renewed certifications garnered from the Edge certification. Or recertification pathway will share a consistent new expiration date, aligning their validity periods.
After October 30, 2023
Suppose you previously obtained ACEA with a combination of three certifications once the validity of those three certifications expires. In that case, you need to recertify each certification independently, as the edge certification itself won’t be accessible for renewal. For instance, if you attained ACEA by acquiring ACSA, ACA-Network Security, and ACA-Campus Access beyond October 31, 2023, should the need for renewal arise, you’ll need to undertake separate exams for each component certification (ACSA, ACA-Network Security, and ACA-Campus Access).
Aruba Certified Edge Professional (ACEP)
The Aruba Certified Edge Professional (ACEP) certification stands as a beacon of excellence, specifically designed for networking IT professionals who have dedicated themselves to refining their abilities in the intricate realm of deploying enterprise-level network solutions. Tailored to the Professional skill level, this certification journey is uniquely crafted to empower individuals who possess a minimum of one year’s hands-on experience in orchestrating and managing intricate network deployments within the enterprise landscape. For networking IT professionals seeking to elevate their skills and amplify their impact in the field of network solution deployment, the ACEP certification journey offers a transformative pathway. Geared towards those who have navigated the complexities of enterprise-level network implementations for a substantial period.
The ACEP certification isn’t merely an acknowledgement of the candidates’ knowledge; it’s a holistic validation of their profound competence. It recognizes the depth of understanding and mastery they have achieved through their hands-on experiences in orchestrating and managing network solutions in an enterprise context. This certification stands as a testament to their ability to navigate intricate challenges, optimize network performance, and contribute effectively to the success of organizations.
Prerequisites
Eligibility for this prestigious certification is contingent upon completing a minimum of three out of five Aruba professional-level certifications. These certifications encompass the expansive range of Aruba’s technology domains ( ACMP, ACCP, ACDP, ACSP, ACP-Network Security, and ACP-Campus Access).
Recertifying Aruba Certified Edge Associate – HPE6-A75 (Inactive November 1, 2023)
For the purpose of recertification, the successful completion of the Aruba Certified Edge Professional written exam through Pearson VUE. Tailored to your specific areas of expertise, the Edge professional exam adapts to the domains you have focused on. At the outset of the exam, you can choose three out of five technology areas (Mobility, Switching, Campus Access, ClearPass, Security, or design) for evaluation. The exam have three sections, and passing each section is imperative for overall exam success.
Notably, achieving or renewing the certification brings about an automatic extension of the validity period for all your active Professional and Associate level certifications. This extension aligns the expiration dates of these certifications with the date when the Edge Professional certification was most recently achieved.
After fulfilling the requirements
During certification renewal via a recertification path, lower-level certifications achieved within the same domain are also refreshed. For instance, renewing ACMP certification simultaneously renews ACMA certifications. Notably, all certifications renewed through a single renewal path will share a uniform new expiration date.
Furthermore, if certification renewal is accomplished through the completion of the Edge certification or the Edge recertification path at Professional tier, the renewal process extends to all certifications achieved at the same level, alongside any lower levels within that domain. For instance, ACEP renewal extends to certifications like ACMP, ACSP, ACCP, ACDP, ACP-Network Security, Campus Access, and corresponding Associate levels. An important point to highlight is that all certifications renewed via the Edge certification or recertification path will share a uniform new expiration date.
After October 30, 2023
If you have previously earned ACEP through the acquisition of three certifications. Once the validity period of those three certifications comes to an end, you will need to independently recertify each individual certification. This is because the option to renew the edge certification itself will not be available. For example, if you achieved ACEP by obtaining ACSP, ACP-Network Security, and ACP-Campus Access certifications. After October 31, 2023, if the necessity for renewal arises, you have to undergo separate exams for each of the constituent certifications (ACSP, ACP-Network Security, and ACP-Campus Access).
Aruba Certified Edge Expert (ACEX)
Uniquely designed to cater to IT professionals who possess an exceptional command over Aruba’s products and services, the Aruba Certified Edge Expert (ACEX) certification represents the pinnacle of mastery in the Aruba networking landscape. This certification is strategically for individuals who have cultivated a rich foundation through a minimum of three years’ immersive experience within the dynamic Aruba ecosystem. Marked by its distinct Expert skill level, the ACEX journey unveils a profound exploration of Aruba’s advanced technologies and solutions. The ACEX certification is meticulously make for those who have ventured through a comprehensive journey within the Aruba realm. By requiring a minimum of three years’ hands-on engagement with Aruba products and services. The certification journey signifies the depth of understanding that candidates have attained. These individuals have not just glimpsed the surface but have delved deep into the intricacies. Challenges, and innovations that shape Aruba’s offerings.
As a hallmark of mastery, the ACEX certification speaks volumes about the candidates who earn it. It underscores their commitment to excellence, the depth of their insights, and their ability to navigate the complexities of Aruba’s diverse technology domains. Possessing a profound command over Aruba products and services isn’t merely a feat. It’s a testament to a journey of continuous learning, growth, and expertise. The ACEX journey unfolds within the Expert skill level—a domain reserved for those who have honed their abilities to an exceptional degree. This isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about the practical application, problem-solving acumen. And strategic thinking that comes from years of dedicated involvement within the Aruba ecosystem. The Expert skill level designation reflects the journey’s rigor and the outcomes it produces.
Prerequisites
Before embarking on the journey towards the Aruba Certified Edge Expert (ACEX) certification. There are essential prerequisites that candidates must fulfill. This certification pathway is for those who have demonstrated their mastery in the realm of Aruba technologies. To be eligible, candidates have to attain a minimum of three out of the four distinguished Aruba expert level certifications (ACMX, ACCX, ACX-Network Security, ACDX, and ACSX). These certifications encompass a broad spectrum of Aruba’s technological domains. Ranging from mobility to security, ensuring that candidates possess a comprehensive grasp of Aruba’s offerings.
Recertifying Aruba Certified Edge Expert – HPE6-A76 (Inactive November 1,2023)
For those seeking to renew their Aruba Certified Edge Expert (ACEX) certification, a well-defined recertification path ensures the continuation of their expert-level standing. To accomplish this, candidates have to successfully complete the Aruba Certified Edge Expert written exam, administered through Pearson VUE. This examination is the mirror the domains in which candidates have invested their expertise. With a focus on customization, the exam reflects candidates’ proficiency in the specific areas they have mastered, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation. The exam itself comprises three distinct sections, each representing a crucial facet of Aruba’s technologies. Success in all three sections is imperative, as it directly corresponds to the overall exam accomplishment. Candidates experience a significant benefit— the extension of the validity of all their active Expert, Professional, and Associate level certifications.
After fulfilling the requirements
if certification renewal is done through the completion of the Edge certification or the Edge recertification path at Expert level. The renewal process extends to all certifications achieved at the same level, alongside any lower levels within that domain. For instance, ACEX renewal extends to certifications like ACMX, ACSX, ACCX, ACDX, ACX-Network Security, and corresponding Associate levels. An important point to highlight is that all certifications renewed via the Edge certification. Or recertification path will share a uniform new expiration date.
After October 30,2023
If you have previously obtained ACEX by attaining three certifications. Once the expiration period of those three certifications reaches its conclusion. The requirement to independently recertify each individual certification will arise. This stems from the fact that the option to renew the edge certification itself will not be accessible. As an illustrative instance, if you secured ACEX through the acquisition of ACSX, ACX-Network Security, and ACMX certifications. Beyond October 31, 2023, should the need for renewal emerge. You will be undergo separate examinations for each of the constituent certifications (ACSX, ACX-Network Security, and ACMX).
Conclusion
The Aruba Certified Edge certification journey is an unparalleled path that challenges networking and IT professionals to expand their expertise beyond conventional boundaries. In a rapidly evolving landscape, where specialization has been the norm. Aruba’s unique approach encourages individuals to embrace a panoramic understanding of networking architecture. This comprehensive exploration of the Aruba Certified Edge certification track reveals how it reshapes career trajectories. And empowers professionals to thrive in the dynamic fields of networking and IT. At the heart of this journey lies the pursuit of holistic proficiency. The certification track demands dedication and a passion for continuous learning. Pushing individuals to master multiple technical domains such as mobility, switching, security, and design. As industries move toward integrated networking solutions. Those armed with expertise across these areas position themselves as innovators and adaptors at the forefront of change.
Throughout this series, we’ve delved into each certification level, showcasing the symbiotic relationship between different technical domains. We’ve discovered the transformative power of the Aruba Certified Edge certification track. From practical exam preparation tips to understanding industry trends, this journey leaves no stone unturned. However, it’s important to note that the landscape is shifting. With the deactivation of the Edge certifications looming, professionals must take heed of important dates and recertification paths. The opportunity to extend the validity of existing certifications through the Edge recertification assessments until October 30, 2023. Beyond this date, automatic conferment of permanent Edge recognition status for holders of certifications in good standing highlights the enduring value of these achievements.
