Cisco SD-WAN Programmability
1. REST API Integration
REST API Integration allows developers to interact with Cisco SD-WAN components programmatically. By using RESTful APIs, you can retrieve data, configure settings, and automate tasks within the SD-WAN environment. This integration is crucial for building custom applications that enhance network management and monitoring.
Example: A network administrator uses a REST API to fetch real-time traffic statistics from the SD-WAN controller. This data is then used to create a dashboard that visualizes network performance, enabling proactive management of the SD-WAN infrastructure.
2. Python Scripting for Automation
Python Scripting for Automation involves using Python to write scripts that interact with Cisco SD-WAN devices. These scripts can automate repetitive tasks such as configuration updates, health checks, and reporting. Python's simplicity and extensive libraries make it an ideal choice for network automation.
Example: A Python script is used to automate the deployment of new SD-WAN sites. The script reads a configuration file, applies the settings to the SD-WAN devices, and verifies the deployment, ensuring consistency and reducing manual effort.
3. Orchestration with Cisco DNA Center
Orchestration with Cisco DNA Center involves integrating SD-WAN with Cisco's Digital Network Architecture (DNA) Center. This integration allows for centralized management and orchestration of SD-WAN deployments, enabling automated workflows and policy-driven network operations.
Example: Cisco DNA Center is used to orchestrate the deployment of a new SD-WAN overlay across multiple sites. The orchestration engine automates the configuration of SD-WAN devices, ensuring that all sites are configured according to predefined policies.
4. Network Function Virtualization (NFV) in SD-WAN
Network Function Virtualization (NFV) in SD-WAN involves running network functions such as firewalls, load balancers, and WAN optimization on virtual machines or containers. This approach provides flexibility and scalability, allowing network functions to be deployed and managed dynamically.
Example: A virtual firewall is deployed as an NFV service within the SD-WAN environment. This virtual firewall can be instantiated on-demand, providing security services to new SD-WAN sites without the need for physical hardware.
5. Policy-Based Routing and Traffic Steering
Policy-Based Routing and Traffic Steering in SD-WAN allows for the application of policies that determine how traffic is routed across the WAN. These policies can be based on criteria such as application type, user identity, or network conditions, enabling optimized and secure traffic management.
Example: A policy-based routing rule is configured to prioritize voice traffic over other types of traffic. This ensures that voice calls are given the highest priority, maintaining quality of service (QoS) for critical communications.
6. Integration with Cloud Services
Integration with Cloud Services in SD-WAN involves connecting SD-WAN environments with cloud-based applications and services. This integration enables seamless connectivity and optimized performance for cloud-based workloads, enhancing the overall efficiency of the network.
Example: An SD-WAN deployment is integrated with a cloud-based CRM application. The SD-WAN solution optimizes the traffic path to the cloud, ensuring low latency and high performance for users accessing the CRM application.