Cisco DevNet Sandboxes Explained

Cisco DevNet Sandboxes are virtual environments provided by Cisco to help developers and network engineers learn, experiment, and test Cisco technologies without the need for physical hardware. Below, we will explore eight key Cisco DevNet Sandboxes and their functionalities.

1. Always-On Sandbox

The Always-On Sandbox is a 24/7 available environment that allows users to access and experiment with Cisco technologies at any time. This sandbox is ideal for quick testing and learning without the need for reservations.

Example: Imagine a library that is open 24/7, where you can walk in anytime and read books. Similarly, the Always-On Sandbox is always available for you to explore and experiment with Cisco technologies.

2. Reservable Sandbox

The Reservable Sandbox requires users to reserve a specific time slot to access the environment. This sandbox is useful for more structured learning and testing, where uninterrupted access is required.

Example: Consider a conference room that you need to book in advance for a meeting. The Reservable Sandbox works similarly, where you reserve a time slot to ensure you have exclusive access to the environment.

3. Network Programmability Sandbox

The Network Programmability Sandbox focuses on teaching and experimenting with network automation and programmability tools. It includes platforms like Cisco DNA Center, Cisco Modeling Labs, and Cisco Application Policy Infrastructure Controller (APIC).

Example: Think of a workshop where you learn to build and customize cars. The Network Programmability Sandbox is like that workshop, where you learn to build and customize network automation tools.

4. Data Center Sandbox

The Data Center Sandbox provides an environment to explore and experiment with Cisco's data center technologies, including Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) and Cisco Nexus switches.

Example: Imagine a data center as a large warehouse where you store and manage goods. The Data Center Sandbox allows you to explore and manage this warehouse using Cisco's data center technologies.

5. Collaboration Sandbox

The Collaboration Sandbox focuses on Cisco's collaboration technologies, such as Cisco Webex, Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM), and Cisco TelePresence.

Example: Consider a virtual meeting room where you can collaborate with others in real-time. The Collaboration Sandbox provides you with the tools to set up and manage these virtual meeting rooms using Cisco's collaboration technologies.

6. Security Sandbox

The Security Sandbox allows users to explore and experiment with Cisco's security solutions, including Cisco Firepower, Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE), and Cisco Stealthwatch.

Example: Think of a security guard training facility where you learn to protect a building. The Security Sandbox is like that facility, where you learn to protect networks using Cisco's security solutions.

7. Internet of Things (IoT) Sandbox

The IoT Sandbox provides an environment to explore and experiment with Cisco's IoT technologies, including Cisco Kinetic, Cisco IoT Field Network Director (FND), and Cisco IoT Control Center.

Example: Imagine a smart home where you control various devices using a central system. The IoT Sandbox allows you to explore and control these smart devices using Cisco's IoT technologies.

8. Cloud Sandbox

The Cloud Sandbox focuses on Cisco's cloud technologies, including Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) on Cisco Cloud, Cisco Hybrid Solution for Kubernetes, and Cisco Intersight.

Example: Consider a cloud storage service where you store and manage your data online. The Cloud Sandbox allows you to explore and manage cloud environments using Cisco's cloud technologies.

By leveraging these Cisco DevNet Sandboxes, you can enhance your skills and knowledge in various Cisco technologies, making you a more valuable asset in the IT industry.