It’s been some time since I’ve last posted. In that time, I’ve been patiently waiting for INE to release their CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure material (due Early December). To fill the void of not learning, I’ve decided to start learning Python since the direction of the Network Engineer appears to be heading toward scripting and automation.
To facilitate this, I’m reading ‘Think Python 2’ by Allen Downey following the recommendation by Rowell and Francois on Clear to Send Episode 195. Hopefully, this will lead to streamlining repetetive tasks such as device builds.
Tools I’m Using:
- VMware Workstation
- Ubuntu Server 18.04.3 LTS
- Python3
- Notepad++
- GitHub
So let me explain a little! I’m using VMware Workstation to run Ubuntu Server 18.04.3 LTS. This in turn is running python3 which allows me to use the interpreter directly. When I’ve got the hang of a new concept, I’ll write a script on Notepad++ (using the Python language plugin) and save it to GitHub. My intention once I’ve learnt a reasonable amount, is to convert my GitHub repository from private to public and I’ll publish it here.
The potentials applications of this skill are endless, but I’m particularly interested in scripting device builds. Time saved by running a script which can lookup a CSV or similar to provide unique details will be valuable. Time that can then be spent studying for a CCIE…
In summary, learning python is potentially a very worthwhile pursuit. I’ll be looking to combine this with a lab on EVE-NG to see how exactly python can be leveraged in a lab environment. The obvious benefit as previously mentioned is time and effort. Imagine how long it would take to migrate 1000+ network devices to a new TACACS+ platform. Now imagine how much easier that will become, if you could script this process. It makes a lot of sense!
