In today’s fast-evolving IT world, network automation has become one of the most sought-after skills for networking professionals. As enterprises move toward digital transformation and cloud adoption, automating network tasks saves time, minimizes human error, and ensures scalability. Developing network automation skills is no longer optional—it’s essential for anyone aiming to stay relevant in the networking field.
This article will guide you step-by-step through the best
ways to build and strengthen your network automation expertise—from
understanding fundamentals to mastering tools and real-world implementation.
1. Understand Networking Fundamentals
Before diving into automation, a solid foundation in
networking concepts is essential. Automation doesn’t replace traditional
networking—it enhances it. You need to understand how networks operate to
automate them effectively.
Start by revising key networking topics:
OSI and TCP/IP models
IP addressing and subnetting
Routing and switching protocols (like OSPF, BGP, VLANs, and
STP)
Network security concepts
WAN technologies and VPNs
You can strengthen these fundamentals by using resources
like:
Cisco’s CCNAand CCNPcourses
Juniper Networks’ training materials
Online platforms such as NetworkLessonsand INE
Once your networking basics are strong, you can move
confidently into automation without confusion about how devices communicate.
2. Learn a Scripting Language (Start with Python)
Python is the most popular programming language for network
automation. It’s easy to learn, powerful, and supported by numerous libraries
that interact directly with networking devices and APIs.
Start with these Python fundamentals:
Variables, data types, and loops
Functions and modules
File handling and JSON/YAML data formats
Working with libraries like requests, paramiko, and netmiko
After learning the basics, practice writing simple scripts
to:
Connect to routers or switches
Pull interface details or routing tables
Change configurations automatically
Example:
Write a Python script that logs into multiple Cisco routers
using SSH and collects interface statistics. This simple task will help you
understand the power of automation in saving time and effort.
Free resources such as Python for Network Engineersby Kirk
Byers or Automate the Boring Stuff with Pythonare great starting points.
3. Master APIs and Data Models
Modern networks are API-driven. Understanding REST APIs
(Representational State Transfer) is crucial to interact programmatically with
devices and controllers.
Learn how to:
Send GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE requests
Authenticate using tokens or credentials
Parse JSON or XML responses
You can use tools like Postman to practice API calls. For
example, Cisco DNA Center, Juniper Contrail, and Arista CloudVision all provide
REST APIs for automation.
Also, learn about data models like:
YANG (Yet Another Next Generation)
NETCONF/RESTCONF protocols
These standards define how data is structured and exchanged
between devices and management systems. Understanding them helps you automate
configuration consistently across multi-vendor networks.
4. Practice with Network Automation Tools
After scripting and API basics, move to dedicated network
automation frameworks that simplify complex tasks.
Here are the top tools to learn:
Ansible: Agentless, YAML-based automation tool widely used
for network configuration management.
Puppet and Chef: Useful for configuration consistency across
large-scale environments.
SaltStack: Enables event-driven automation and real-time
monitoring.
Terraform: Great for infrastructure-as-code (IaC) and
multi-cloud automation.
Start with Ansible—it’s beginner-friendly and integrates
easily with Cisco, Juniper, and Arista devices. You can automate repetitive
tasks such as:
Pushing configurations
Validating interface states
Backing up device settings
You can practice using Cisco DevNet’s sandboxes, EVE-NG, or GNS3 labs to simulate real networks safely.
5. Build Hands-On Experience with Labs and Simulators
Theoretical learning alone won’t make you proficient.
Hands-on practice is where real growth happens.
Platforms like:
Cisco DevNet Sandbox – offers free access to virtual labs.
EVE-NG, GNS3, and Cisco Packet Tracer – let you design and
test network automation scripts in simulated environments.
GitHub – explore open-source network automation projects and
contribute to them.
Set up lab environments where you can:
Test automation scripts
Experiment with different vendor devices
Practice troubleshooting automation workflows
Working in simulated labs builds confidence before applying
your skills to production environments.
6. Embrace Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
Network automation extends beyond scripting—it’s about
managing your infrastructure as code. IaC allows you to define network
configurations in human-readable files (YAML, JSON, or HCL) that can be
version-controlled using Git.
Benefits of IaC include:
Consistency and repeatability
Easy rollback in case of failure
Better collaboration between network and DevOps teams
Start by exploring tools like Terraform or Ansible
Playbooks. Learn Git basics and push your configurations to GitHub or GitLab
for version control.
7. Collaborate and Learn from the Community
The network automation community is active and supportive.
Participate in:
Cisco DevNet forums
Reddit’s r/networking
Automation Slack channels
Network to Code communities
Following industry experts and open-source projects helps
you stay current with new frameworks, tools, and best practices.
You can also earn certifications such as:
Cisco DevNet Associate/Professional
Juniper JNCIA-DevOps
HashiCorp Terraform Certification
These credentials validate your automation skills and
improve career opportunities.
8. Apply Automation in Real-World Scenarios
Once confident, start applying automation in real-life
situations:
Automate network backups and reports
Deploy new configurations across multiple devices
Monitor performance and generate alerts automatically
Focus on solving practical problems, not just writing code.
Each automation project enhances your understanding of how technology supports
business goals.
Conclusion
Developing network automation skills is a journey that
blends networking knowledge, programming expertise, and hands-on practice.
Start by mastering networking basics, learn Python and APIs, practice using
tools like Ansible, and test everything in lab environments. Stay curious,
collaborate with peers, and continuously refine your skills through real-world
projects.
By investing time and consistent effort, you’ll evolve from a traditional network engineer into a modern automation expert, capable of designing efficient, scalable, and intelligent networks that define the future of IT.
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