5 Network Designer Tips and Tricks

Contrary to popular belief, network automation is not a shortcut for the lazy – it's a powerful tool that streamlines repetitive tasks and enhances efficiency. By embracing network automation, network designers can reclaim valuable hours each week for more strategic tasks. In this article, we'll explore five network automation tips and tricks to guide your automation decisions and overcome potential hurdles.

1. Choose Between Simplicity and Flexibility

Automating your network requires treating it as code, akin to programming. Unlike traditional CLI interfaces, where enabling OSPF on an interface might have one or two methods, network automation offers numerous approaches to accomplish the same objective. Evaluate your needs and determine whether you prioritize simplicity or flexibility in your automation solution.

2. Embrace One-Off Configurations

One of the biggest barriers to network automation is the presence of ad-hoc or one-off configurations, such as that one access list entry on a switch added to satisfy an IT auditor. Instead of trying to eliminate these, embrace them and incorporate them into your automation solution. Adopt the mindset that if it's not in the automation code, it doesn't exist in the running configuration. Start small by automating simple tasks first.

3. Standardize on a Single Automation Platform

Automation requires treating infrastructure as code, and every automation platform has its own programming language. Ansible uses Python, while Puppet and Chef leverage Ruby. It's crucial to choose a single automation platform and agree on a common language for everyone involved. This doesn't mean everyone needs to be an expert from the start – you and your team can learn the language together, but standardization is key.

4. Leverage Version Control

Keep all automated device configurations in a centralized repository using a version control system. This offers several advantages, including tracking changes (even the smallest ones) and troubleshooting issues by pinpointing the culprit change. However, version control cannot track the state of the network itself.

5. Validate and Monitor with Cumulus NetQ

Regardless of your automation journey stage, it's wise to implement Cumulus NetQ early on. While version control tracks configuration changes, NetQ monitors changes to the network's state itself. NetQ can detect when the network state changes and identify the underlying reason, even for manual changes in partially automated networks. This eliminates blind spots left by partial automation.

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If you aspire to become a network designer, consider enrolling in the comprehensive training courses offered by SPOTO CLUB. With expert instructors and cutting-edge learning materials, SPOTO CLUB equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in network automation and unlock new career opportunities in the dynamic field of network design.