From Console Cable to Cisco Design Expert: Ahmed Junaid’s Journey to the Top

When you picture a network architect at the top of their game, odds are you're picturing someone like Ahmed Junaid. With two CCIEs and the prestigious Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) under his belt, Ahmed is one of only a few hundred professionals globally to hold such accolades.

In this episode of The Route to Networking podcast, hosted by Jordan Dyer, Ahmed shares the pivotal moments, mindsets, and mistakes that shaped his journey, from an 18-year-old fresh out of college to one of the most respected names in the networking world. His story is a powerful reminder that behind every complex network is a very human story.

Finding Purpose in Packets

Ahmed’s fascination with networking began with something small: a blue Cisco console cable.

“It felt like holding the keys to a secret world,” he recalls. “That first moment, alone in the lab, watching packets move after I typed a few commands… I was hooked.”

But it was more than the technology that drew him in. What inspired him was the ability to connect people, families staying in touch, businesses staying afloat, and communities growing stronger through reliable networks.

By 24, he had earned his first CCIE. By 28, a second. And by 31, he had joined the elite few to achieve CCDE status - something only a few hundred engineers globally have done.

The Value of Certifications in a Changing Industry

In today’s world of YouTube tutorials, online forums, and AI tools, are certifications still relevant?

“Yes and no,” Ahmed explains. “There’s more free knowledge than ever, but a certification like the CCIE still teaches you discipline, depth, and resilience. It’s a marathon.”

He acknowledges that while certifications don’t guarantee success, they push engineers to truly master their craft.

“Your CCIE won’t speak for you in a boardroom, but it will shape how you think. That’s what matters.”

He also points out that the journey to certification taught him more about structure, perseverance, and focus than any university degree ever did.

A Discipline Built on Failure

Ahmed is candid about the setbacks too.

“I passed my first CCIE on my second attempt. But the second CCIE? That took four attempts.”

Why? Overconfidence.

“I forgot how much work went into the first one. I thought I could coast through the second. That humbled me. And I had to go back, put in the hours, and rebuild that discipline.”

His story reminds us that failure isn’t just part of the process; it’s often the most important part.

From Engineer to Architect: A Mindset Shift

In his current role, Ahmed leads complex projects focused on secure, resilient infrastructure in public sector environments. Think citywide Wi-Fi, secure backbone upgrades, and smart cutover plans that protect essential services.

“We’re constantly being asked to do more with less,” he explains. “Tight budgets, rising threats, and sky-high user expectations. So designs have to be simple enough for lean teams to manage, but flexible enough to grow with the future.”

Ahmed also speaks openly about the gap between engineers and architects, particularly in MSP environments versus enterprise settings.

“In-house teams get time to design with intent. MSPs often don’t. That’s where the disconnect starts.”

Bridging that gap, he believes, begins with collaboration, context, and embedding security and automation from Day Zero, not as an afterthought.

The Technologies to Watch: AI and SASE

Ahmed is especially excited by AI-driven networking and SASE (Secure Access Service Edge), but with a healthy dose of realism.

“AI isn’t magic. But when used correctly, it can help networks heal themselves before users even know there’s an issue.”

Similarly, SASE isn’t just a trend; it’s a reflection of how the workplace has evolved.

“Today’s workforce is everywhere. Security needs to follow the user and the application, without sacrificing user experience.”

He warns that many teams jump on buzzwords without understanding the business problem they’re trying to solve. His advice? Start with context.

“AI and SASE are just tools. Ask yourself: what’s the outcome we want? Then work backwards from there.”

Upskilling for the Future

For anyone wondering where to start, Ahmed recommends building strong fundamentals before getting lost in vendor-specific paths.

“Cisco’s certifications are a great foundation, not just because of the content, but the community and mentorship that come with it.”

But he also urges engineers to go beyond CLI commands.

“You need to understand the ‘why’ behind the tech. Learn a bit of everything - security, cloud, automation. And never stop asking questions.”

Advice to Newcomers: Curiosity Over Comfort

Asked what he’d tell his younger self, Ahmed doesn’t hesitate:

“Don’t chase perfection - chase resilience. Be curious. Stay uncomfortable. Ask questions.”

He reflects on his early career, hiding behind the CLI, afraid to speak up. It wasn’t until a manager pulled him aside and told him, “If you don’t ask, how can I help you?” that his mindset shifted.

“That one coffee changed everything.”

The Quickfire Round: Insight in Every Answer

To wrap up the episode, Ahmed takes on our signature quickfire round, answering a series of personal, professional, and reflective questions at pace. Want to know:

• Which of his certifications he's most proud of (and why)?
• The one mistake that taught him the most?
• His favourite learning resources when tackling a new challenge?
• What part of his job people would never expect?
• The single piece of advice he’d give to his younger self?

Then you’ll want to stick around for the final few minutes; it’s rapid, revealing, and packed with gems.

Whether you’re just starting your career or are well into your networking journey, this episode is packed with real, relatable wisdom. From his console-cable beginnings to designing national-scale networks, Ahmed’s story is as much about mindset as it is about technology.

🎧 It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to level up - not just technically, but professionally.

👉 Connect with Ahmed on LinkedIn: Ahmed Janaid