Overview

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Modern networks are shifting from manual CLI management to automated, API-driven operations—and this course shows you how to make that transition with confidence. Designed for network engineers, systems engineers, network architects, and technical managers, this network automation course introduces the core concepts, methodologies, and tools used in modern network operations. You’ll explore network automation fundamentals, learn how Python supports network programmability, and understand why APIs and programmatic interfaces are now essential for reliable, scalable, and predictable network management. The course covers Python data types, the difference between modules and packages, and how to use them effectively in network automation workflows. You’ll also work with a Python module that enables device interaction through code, then build your own module to apply what you’ve learned. A key differentiator of this program is its practical focus on the real evolution of network operations—from decades of console, Telnet, SSH, and CLI-based management to today’s automation-first approach. Ideal for professionals with routing and switching knowledge, basic Python experience, and some Linux familiarity, this course helps build foundational network automation skills for the future of network infrastructure.

Syllabus

Course Introduction for Introduction to Network Automation
- In this module, we will review the topics and what you will learn in this course.
Examining Network Management and Operations
- Network operations have not changed in decades. For years, the console, Telnet, and Secure Shell (SSH) along with the CLI were the primary methods for managing and operating networks of any size. With the rise of programmatic interfaces on network devices and the growing need for enhanced reliability, assurance, and predictability, network operations are now in the midst of a radical shift in how devices are deployed and operated. This section reviews how devices have been managed historically and provides a glimpse into the future of network operations.
Using Python for Network Automation
- Network automation is the future of network operation. Today, network engineers need to know how to interact with their network devices using application programming interfaces (APIs) and programmatic interfaces, and at a minimum, they must understand some fundamentals of coding. In this section, you will explore a programming language that is widely used in network automation—Python. You will start by learning different data types that Python supports, and then learn the differences between modules and packages and how to use them to your benefit. Next, you will learn about a module that lets you interact with devices with code. Finally, you will create your own module and interact with the code inside it.