Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks from Pluralsight

Software defined networks (SDN) and automation have become mainstream in enterprise networks. This course will introduce you to the terms, benefits, and operation of an SDN as well as introduce network automation utilities.

The CCNA exam requires understanding of Cisco's Software Defined Network Product called Cisco DNA Center, as well as understanding of network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef and Puppet.

In this course, Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks, you will cover each of the exam objectives related to Automation and Cisco's Software Defined Networks. First, you will learn the terminology around Software Defined Networks, and describe how the underlay network allows for VXLAN tunneling on the overlay network. Next, you will see how the same VLAN and Subnet can exist at opposite ends of a Layer 3 network using VXLAN, and examine how APIs are used to send information in and out of network devices. Finally, you will discover how configuration management is becoming an important component of a network and describe how we can use utilities like Ansible, Puppet, or Chef to keep configurations of devices consistent. By the end of this course, you will have gained foundational knowledge that will cover the exam objectives.

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview

Introducing Controller Based Networks

Cisco Software Defined Networking

Communicating with APIs

Understanding Network Configuration Automation Utilities

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Prepares students to do well on the CCNA exam, a highly recognized certification in the field of network engineering

Provides opportunities to work with networking-as-code, which is an industry trend

Students will explore network configuration automation utilities such as Ansible, Puppet, and Chef. Understanding automation and configuration management is a cornerstone of modern network engineering

This course aims to teach beginners the basics of software defined networks and automation, two increasingly important concepts in network engineering

Introduces VXLAN tunneling, a method for creating virtual networks

Covers using APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) to interact with network devices

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks with these activities:

Volunteer at a Networking Event

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Gain practical experience and build your network by volunteering at an industry event focused on networking technologies.

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Research and identify relevant networking events
Apply for volunteer positions and secure a role
Assist with event setup, registration, or other tasks

Read "Software Defined Networks: A Comprehensive Approach"

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Gain a deeper understanding of the concepts and technologies behind SDN by reading an authoritative book on the subject.

View Software Defined Networks on Amazon

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Read the book's chapters on SDN architecture and benefits
Review case studies on SDN implementations

Join a Study Group on Cisco DNA Center

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Enhance your understanding of Cisco DNA Center and network automation by engaging in discussions and collaborating with peers.

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Identify or form a study group with classmates or online participants
Establish regular meeting times and topics for discussion
Share knowledge, resources, and practice exercises

Five other activities

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Explore Ansible for Network Automation

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Expand your knowledge of network automation by following tutorials on Ansible, a popular configuration management tool.

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Install and configure Ansible
Write Ansible playbooks for common network tasks
Test and execute the playbooks

Practice VXLAN Configuration

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Strengthen your understanding of VXLAN by practicing its configuration on a virtual network

Browse courses on VXLAN

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Set up a virtual environment
Configure VXLAN tunnels on switches
Verify VXLAN connectivity

Attend an SDN Automation Workshop

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Supplement your theoretical knowledge with practical experience by attending a workshop specifically focused on SDN automation.

Browse courses on SDN

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Research and identify relevant workshops
Register and attend the workshop
Actively participate in hands-on exercises and discussions

Build a Simple SDN Network

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Solidify your understanding of SDN by building a simple network using VXLAN tunneling.

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Design the network topology
Configure the SDN controller
Configure the switches and hosts
Test and verify network connectivity

Create a Presentation on SDN Automation

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Sharpen your communication and presentation skills while reinforcing your understanding of SDN by creating a presentation on network automation.

Browse courses on SDN

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Gather information on SDN automation technologies and best practices
Develop a presentation outline
Create slides and incorporate visuals
Practice and refine the presentation

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Network Administrator

A Network Administrator maintains and troubleshoots computer networks. They also install and configure new hardware and software.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as a Network Administrator. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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Network Engineer

A Network Engineer designs, installs, and maintains computer networks. They work with a variety of technologies, including routers, switches, and firewalls.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as a Network Engineer. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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DevOps Engineer

A DevOps Engineer is responsible for the development and operation of software systems. They work with developers and operations teams to ensure that software is delivered quickly and efficiently.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as a DevOps Engineer. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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Network Architect

A Network Architect designs computer networks that facilitate communication between different devices in a network. Their work involves network planning, analysis, and troubleshooting.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as a Network Architect. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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IT Consultant

An IT Consultant provides advice and guidance to organizations on how to use technology to achieve their business goals. They work with clients to identify their needs and develop solutions that meet those needs.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as an IT Consultant. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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Cloud Architect

A Cloud Architect designs and manages cloud computing systems. They work with clients to understand their business needs and develop solutions that meet those needs.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as a Cloud Architect. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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IT Manager

An IT Manager plans and directs the activities of an organization's IT department. They are responsible for the development, implementation, and maintenance of the organization's IT systems.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as an IT Manager. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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Network Security Engineer

A Network Security Engineer plans, develops, and maintains data network security. They also respond to security incidents and develop security policies.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as a Network Security Engineer. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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Software Engineer

A Software Engineer designs, develops, and tests computer software. They work on a variety of projects, from small applications to large enterprise systems.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as a Software Engineer. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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Systems Engineer

A Systems Engineer designs, installs, and maintains computer systems. They work with a variety of technologies, including servers, storage, and operating systems.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as a Systems Engineer. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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Business Analyst

A Business Analyst gathers and analyzes business requirements to develop solutions that meet the needs of the organization. They work with stakeholders to understand their needs and develop solutions that meet those needs.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as a Business Analyst. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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Software Developer

A Software Developer designs, develops, and tests computer software. They work on a variety of projects, from small applications to large enterprise systems.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as a Software Developer. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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Data Analyst

A Data Analyst collects and analyzes large amounts of data to identify patterns and trends. They use this information to make recommendations and improve business processes.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as a Data Analyst. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst plans, implements, and maintains security measures to protect an organization's data and systems. They work with a variety of technologies, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and security software.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as an Information Security Analyst. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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Data Scientist

A Data Scientist uses data to solve business problems. They work with a variety of tools and technologies to collect, analyze, and interpret data.This “Introduction to Cisco Automation and Software Defined Networks” course may be useful in helping you gain some of the knowledge you need to be successful as a Data Scientist. Specifically, you’ll learn about network automation utilities like Ansible, Chef, and Puppet.

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