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Is your network too complex for automation? (Spoiler: no.)

Many companies say the same thing when we meet for the first time:


“We’d love to get started with network automation – but our environment is too complex.”


And that’s totally understandable – we get that it seems difficult. Many networks have evolved organically, layer upon layer of equipment from vendors like Cisco, Juniper, old configurations, and various people who’ve worked on it over the years – and suddenly you’re stuck in a technical maze that no one fully understands.


But here’s the thing: that’s not a reason to skip automation. It’s a reason to start.



We hear it often – “our environment is too messy”


As network consultants who work hands-on with operations, design, and NetOps every day, we've heard this many times. It's easy to feel like automation is only for those who have everything under control. But the truth is:


So... it's not just you. It's the norm.


But that doesn't mean you have to stay stuck there.


Network Automation: It Doesn’t Have to Start Perfectly


Implementing network operations automation doesn’t require everything to already be standardized. It just requires a first step.


Here are three ways to get started – without tearing everything down:


1. Start where the most repetitive work happens


Backing up configs? Deploying new access points? Policy changes? Most organizations have recurring tasks that take time and are often done manually. Our NetOps consultants or NetDevOps specialists can help you automate these gradually – without disrupting the rest of your environment.



2. Introduce a “Source of Truth”


This may sound technical, but it’s actually simple: A Source of Truth is a place where you define how the network should look. Think: “a central truth” about services, IP planning, topology, and policies. Once you have that, you can start building automation that’s smart – not just scripted.


It’s a key to sustainable network automation.



3. Start thinking NetOps 2.0


NetOps 2.0 is a way of working where operations, design, and automation are interconnected. It’s not just about pushing config – it’s about:


  • Designing services, not just devices

  • Abstracting away technical complexity

  • Automating lifecycle management (LCM)


This means you’re no longer dependent on “that one person who knows that one thing” – you’re building knowledge into the process itself.



But… isn’t our environment too unique?


That’s another common concern. And yes – every network is different. Some run Cisco, others Juniper, and some use a mix. But that’s exactly why a network automation consultant doesn’t just drop in an off-the-shelf tool – they design solutions based on your specific setup.


Sometimes that means working with NSO, sometimes with Ansible, and sometimes with completely custom code.The point is: there’s no single “right way” – only the right path for you.




So… is your network too complex?



No.


It might be messy, reliant on specific individuals, a bit fragmented at times. But that’s exactly what automation is meant to handle.


And you don’t have to do everything at once.You just have to start.




👋 Want to learn more about how you can automate your network?


In May, we're offering a limited number of free Network Optimization Audits – where our network consultants review your environment, identify bottlenecks, and suggest automation steps tailored to your specific setup.


Learn more about the audit & book your session via the button below! 👇




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