Network Automation Concepts
1. Configuration Management
Configuration Management is the process of maintaining and controlling the configuration of network devices to ensure they are in the desired state. It involves automating the deployment, modification, and tracking of device configurations to ensure consistency and reliability across the network.
Example: A network administrator uses a configuration management tool like Ansible to deploy a new VLAN configuration across multiple switches. The tool ensures that all switches receive the same configuration, reducing the risk of human error and ensuring consistency across the network.
2. Network Programmability
Network Programmability refers to the ability to automate and manage network devices using software and APIs. It allows network engineers to write scripts and applications that can interact with network devices programmatically, enabling dynamic and scalable network management.
Example: A network engineer develops a Python script that uses the Cisco NX-API to retrieve interface statistics from a Cisco Nexus switch. The script can be scheduled to run periodically, providing real-time insights into network performance and helping to identify potential issues before they impact the network.