Understand network automation, APIs, and configuration management.
Covers software-defined networking (SDN), controller-based architectures, REST APIs, JSON data format, configuration management tools (Ansible, Puppet, Chef), and intent-based networking concepts. This domain represents 10% of the CCNA exam.
5 minutes
5 Questions
Automation and Programmability is a critical domain in the CCNA certification that focuses on modern network management approaches. This area represents the shift from traditional manual network configuration to software-driven, automated solutions.
Network automation involves using software tools and scripts to configure, manage, and operate network devices and services. Instead of logging into each device individually to make changes, network engineers can write code that executes tasks across multiple devices simultaneously. This approach reduces human error, saves time, and ensures consistency across the network infrastructure.
Key components include:
**APIs (Application Programming Interfaces):** These allow different software applications to communicate with network devices. REST APIs are commonly used in modern networking, enabling programmatic access to device configurations and status information.
**Configuration Management Tools:** Platforms like Ansible, Puppet, and Chef help automate the deployment and management of network configurations at scale.
**Software-Defined Networking (SDN):** This architecture separates the control plane from the data plane, allowing centralized network management through software controllers. Cisco DNA Center exemplifies this approach.
**Programming Languages:** Python is the predominant language for network automation due to its simplicity and extensive library support. CCNA candidates should understand basic Python concepts and how scripts interact with network devices.
**Data Formats:** JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) and YAML are standard formats for structuring data exchanged between automation tools and network devices.
**Controller-Based Architectures:** Understanding how controllers like Cisco DNA Center manage network infrastructure through intent-based networking principles is essential.
The benefits of automation include faster deployment times, reduced operational costs, improved accuracy, and better scalability. As networks grow more complex, manual management becomes impractical, making automation skills increasingly valuable for network professionals. CCNA prepares candidates to understand these concepts and apply them in real-world networking environments.Automation and Programmability is a critical domain in the CCNA certification that focuses on modern network management approaches. This area represents the shift from traditional manual network configuration to software-driven, automated solutions.
Network automation involves using software tools…