Network Chuck Presentation: Ansible for Network Automation

Introduction

• Focus on Ansible as an IT Automation tool.
• Applicable for managing and configuring devices (Windows, Linux, routers, switches).
• Emphasis on Ansible Network Automation, particularly with Cisco routers and switches.

Why Ansible?

• No programming knowledge required.
• Popular among network engineers.
• Can manage multiple devices without knowing Python.

Setting up Ansible for Network Automation

1. System Preparation

   • Use CentOS as the base system.
   • Update repositories: yum update -y
   • Install EPEL release: yum install epel-release -y

2. Ansible Installation

   • Install Ansible: yum install ansible -y
   • Configure Ansible by editing the configuration file:
     • Disable host key checking: Find host_key_checking and set it to false.

3. Managing Cisco Devices

   • Add Cisco routers and switches to the Ansible inventory file.
   • Use Cisco DevNet for free access to routers and switches.
   • Set up an account on developer.cisco.com for access.

Configuring the Inventory File

• Use variables to connect to routers:
  • Ansible Variables
    • ansible_user=developer
    • ansible_password=developer
    • ansible_connection=network_cli
    • ansible_network_os=ios
    • ansible_port=8181

Testing Configuration

• Use the ansible command to test connectivity with the ping module.
• Run commands like show IP interface brief using the ios_command module.

Using Ansible Playbooks

• Concept of Playbooks

  • Written in YAML format.
  • Automate tasks across multiple devices.

• Sample Playbook

  • Name: General Config
  • Tasks: Add Banner and Add Loopback Interface
    • Use ios_banner module to modify login banner.
    • Use ios_interface module to add loopback interface.

• Running the Playbook

  • Execute with ansible-playbook devnet.yml.
  • Demonstrates idempotency: No changes on second run unless configuration differs.

Cleaning Up

• Remove configurations by setting state to absent in playbook.
• Verify changes directly on devices.

Advantages of Ansible for Network Automation

• Ease of use without programming knowledge.
• Automated configuration management.
• Supports a wide range of network devices and modules.

Additional Resources

• Training: CBT Nuggets for CCNP, DevNet, and Ansible course.
• Suggestion to learn Python for advanced automation.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to try network automation using Ansible.
• Explore various modules and automate network tasks efficiently.
• Feedback invitation from viewers about their tasks and experiences.