How can you automate network configuration changes?

1 Why automate network configuration changes?

Automating network configuration changes can bring about many advantages, such as faster and more efficient deployment of new devices, features, and policies, as well as less human intervention and fewer errors. Moreover, it can ensure more consistent and standardized network settings across devices, making it easier to comply with security and regulatory requirements. Automation also provides better visibility and control over network changes and status, along with greater flexibility and scalability to accommodate changing needs and demands.

2 How to automate network configuration changes with scripts?

Scripts are one of the simplest ways to automate network configuration changes. These sets of commands can be written and run on devices to perform specific tasks, such as changing passwords, enabling services, or applying updates. Depending on the device type and preference, different scripting languages such as Python, PowerShell, or Bash can be used. Libraries and modules like Netmiko, Paramiko, or NAPALM can also be used to simplify and extend scripting capabilities. To automate network configuration changes with scripts, you need to identify the devices and parameters that you want to change, write the script containing the commands and logic for the change, test it in a lab or sandbox environment before applying it to production, run the script on the target devices either manually or with a scheduler, and verify and document the results of the change.

3 How to automate network configuration changes with tools?

Automating network configuration changes can be done through the use of tools. These software applications can help manage, monitor, and automate network devices and configurations. While some tools are vendor-specific, others are vendor-neutral. To utilize these tools, you must first select the one that best fits your network environment and goals, then install and configure it on your server or workstation. Additionally, you must define the inventory of devices and groups that you want to manage, create templates or manifests that specify the desired state of your devices and configurations, apply the templates or manifests to the devices and groups either on-demand or with a trigger, and review and report the status and changes of your devices and configurations.

4 How to automate network configuration changes with frameworks?

Frameworks can be used to automate network configuration changes. These frameworks are sets of standards, protocols, and processes that enable and support automation. Examples of frameworks include ITIL, DevOps, NetOps, Cisco Network Services Orchestrator, Juniper Contrail, and Huawei Agile Controller. To use a framework for automation, you must adopt one that fits your network strategy and culture. Then you need to implement the framework components and practices such as service catalogs, workflows, version control, testing, and feedback. Additionally, you should integrate the framework with your existing tools and scripts or use the ones provided by the framework. Finally, execute the framework workflows and tasks to automate network configuration changes. Evaluating and improving the framework performance and outcomes is also important.

5 What are some best practices for automating network configuration changes?

Automating network configuration changes can make life easier, but also bring new challenges and risks. To avoid or minimize them, it is recommended to plan and design your network automation goals and scope, document and backup current configurations and settings, validate and test scripts, tools, and frameworks before deploying them, monitor and audit network changes and activities, troubleshoot any issues or errors that may arise, and review and update network automation processes and policies. Doing so can help optimize network administration tasks and results by reducing manual work, increasing consistency, and enhancing security. Leveraging best practices can ensure successful automation with satisfaction.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?