Time to automate your network, but struggling to get started or unsure where to begin? If you recognize yourself in these questions, you're not alone. In this post, I aim to clarify why Cisco NSO might be the right tool for you and how you can best start your journey towards a more efficient network infrastructure with the help of experienced Cisco NSO consultants.
Network automation is a hot topic among businesses. Doing more, faster, and more efficiently is always desirable. Whether you are already using AWS, Azure, or other cloud services, there is often a big difference in how these cloud services are managed compared to the company's on-prem network. However, the difference doesn’t have to be that significant—both types handle IP networks, transmit IP packets, and use Ethernet frames.
Many businesses talk about wanting the "latest technology" to stay competitive, but they don’t always know what that really means or what the best solution is for their company. Before diving into the technology, we should discuss why NSO can be a better solution than building everything yourself. Because really, "how hard can it be?"
Let's take an example. We need to configure a port on our equipment. This port will connect to something internal, so with determination, we sit down at our keyboard and start writing Python code. It usually goes something like this:
→ Configuring the port for the first time isn’t particularly complicated. We generate a few lines of configuration, fill in some variables with relevant data, connect to the device, and apply the configuration.
→ Now, we need to add a VLAN that the port didn’t previously have. The existing configuration now needs to be expanded with this VLAN. No problem—we generate the entire configuration again with the VLAN added. But are you sure that nothing happens to the previous configuration? Will the device ignore redundant configuration, or will it return an error message stating that the configuration already exists?
→ Now, we need to add a VLAN that the port didn’t previously have. The existing configuration now needs to be expanded with this VLAN. No problem—we generate the entire configuration again with the VLAN added. But are you sure that nothing happens to the previous configuration? Will the device ignore redundant configuration, or will it return an error message stating that the configuration already exists?
This example covers just one port, but complexity grows rapidly as a company’s services expand and become more advanced. Add the many vendors and types of equipment—routers, switches, firewalls, IPS systems, and other devices that monitor and control network traffic—and managing everything quickly becomes overwhelming.
How Can Cisco NSO Help?
Since Cisco NSO already supports a wide range of network equipment, there is no need to start from scratch. In this article series, we will explore Cisco NSO in more detail: how the system works, which components are needed for a successful implementation, and how you can actually save time and money by adopting the system. By implementing Cisco NSO correctly, you avoid creating yet another system to maintain—something your IT department, which may already be overloaded, does not need.
In this section, we have discussed common requests, but the key takeaway is that you must have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve and why—before you start, not afterward.
Is it efficiency, scalability, or perhaps better control? Here are some common reasons why you might need Cisco NSO:
Automation of Repetitive Processes
If your IT department spends hours manually configuring network devices or delivering services, Cisco NSO is the solution. By automating these processes, you save both time and money while reducing the risk of human error. Additionally, you achieve a more uniform network environment where deviations from processes and ad-hoc solutions stand out—compared to today's common scenario, where everything is a one-off solution.
Scalability for Future Growth
Growing businesses need networks that can scale with them. Cisco NSO makes it easy to scale up or down without requiring additional personnel resources. With a scalable system and well-functioning processes, you can handle changes without the risk of errors that cause disruptions.
Faster Service Deliveries
Being able to quickly launch new services is a competitive advantage. Cisco NSO enables fast and automated delivery of network services, allowing you to respond to business needs significantly faster.
Centralized Network Control
As networks become more complex, a central platform is necessary to keep everything under control. With Cisco NSO, you can manage both physical and virtual networks from a single solution, providing complete visibility and making it easier to quickly identify and resolve issues.
How Do You Get Started with Cisco NSO?
Getting started with Cisco NSO and network automation can seem overwhelming, especially if you have a complex network environment.
Before You Start Implementing Cisco NSO, Think Strategically and Methodically:
1. Map Your Network and Identify Needs
The first step is to conduct a thorough analysis of your current network and processes. What challenges are you facing today? What does your existing infrastructure look like? By mapping your network environment and processes, you can identify which areas would benefit the most from network automation via Cisco NSO. Perhaps provisioning new services takes too long, or you want to reduce operational costs by automating network maintenance. Or maybe you want to provide internal or external customers with self-service options without requiring your team to be involved at every step.
2. Define Goals and Purpose
Before implementing Cisco NSO, you must be clear about what you want to achieve. Is the goal to reduce downtime due to errors, speed up service delivery, or improve network monitoring? Setting clear goals makes it easier to measure success and adjust the strategy along the way. This step is also crucial for getting all internal stakeholders to understand why you are investing in network automation.
3. Choose the Right Cisco NSO Consultants
Implementing Cisco NSO can be a complex process, especially if you have a large and intricate network infrastructure. Experienced Cisco NSO consultants can make a huge difference. Experts with deep knowledge of NSO can help tailor the solution to your specific needs, ensure a smooth implementation, and avoid common pitfalls. They can also support you throughout the journey, from planning to post-implementation maintenance.
4. Start with a Pilot Implementation
Before rolling out Cisco NSO across your entire network, test the solution on a smaller scale. This allows you to identify any issues or necessary adjustments before scaling up. This minimizes the risk of disruptions and allows you to fine-tune automation before a full deployment.
5. Scale Up and Optimize
Once the pilot has been tested and works as intended, it's time to gradually roll out Cisco NSO across the entire network. However, the work doesn’t stop there. Network automation is an ongoing process. With regular monitoring and optimization, you can ensure that your system is aligned with your company's evolving needs and that you continue to maximize the value of your investment.
Cisco NSO Is an Investment
Investing in Cisco NSO is a crucial step for companies looking to future-proof their networks. By following a structured plan—from needs analysis and goal setting to implementation and optimization—you can ensure that your investment in network automation delivers the results needed to stay competitive in the long run.
Interested in Cisco NSO?
Whether you need help with analysis, implementation, or long-term support, our experienced Cisco NSO consultants can guide you through every step of the process. With the right support, you can maximize the benefits of network automation, reduce costs, and improve overall network efficiency. Contact us to learn more about how you can succeed with Cisco NSO!
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