What is Network Automation? The use of software to automate network and security management and provisioning in order to maximize network functionality and efficiency is known as network automation. This includes the automation of configuration management, change management, device provisioning, and discovery and inventory, among other network processes. When done manually, these processes can be time-consuming and prone to errors. Automating them saves time, reduces errors, lowers operating expenses, and improves network efficiency. It streamlines the maintenance of both physical and virtual network devices across data centers, WAN (wide area networks), and cloud environments.
Any type of network controlled through the CLI (command-line interface) or an API (application programming interface) can be automated. This includes LANs (local area networks), WANs (wide area networks), wireless networks, data center networks.
Script-driven network automation uses scripting and programming languages to carry out tasks. Intelligent (software-based) network automation is regulated by an administrative portal, eliminating the need to script commands by hand. These types of platforms generally provide templates for use in creating and executing tasks based on plain language policies.
Tasks that can be undertaken by network automation solutions include:
CSP (communication service provider) networks are becoming more and more dynamic and heterogeneous. Things are complicated by the requirement of network parameters and configurations to be constantly changing to meet customer expectations. While 5G networks are flexible, non-automated network operation would simply be impractical. CSP operations are improved by automation in every way across the board.
In order to unlock the potential of 5G networks, CSPs need automation. The benefits of automation for CSPs include:
While network automation was first adopted by telecommunications service providers, companies in just about every industry can benefit from the automation of their networks. Hardware- and software-based solutions enable network automation for data centers, service providers, and all kinds of enterprises. Components such as firewalls, servers, storage devices and network devices can be automated, as can network events that trigger ticketing, logging, telemetry, and analytic workflows.
Network automation can help your company in the following areas:
• Backing up and restoring network configurations
• Fact collection (and other read-only tasks) and creation of reports
• Creating a structured source of truth
• Managing network configurations
• Integrating your existing network tools and devices
