Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) is a powerful automation platform designed to manage and orchestrate network services across a wide range of devices. Its ability to interact with network devices through various Network Element Drivers (NEDs) allows it to configure and manage devices running different operating systems. The breadth of device support varies based on the specific NEDs available and the capabilities of the NSO platform itself. Cisco devices represent a significant portion of NSO deployments due to their prevalence in enterprise and service provider networks.
The adoption of NSO provides substantial benefits, including simplified network management, reduced operational costs, and faster service deployment. By automating network configuration tasks, organizations can minimize human error and improve overall network reliability. The historical context demonstrates a gradual evolution toward model-driven automation, with NSO playing a pivotal role in enabling this transition within Cisco environments. This automation platform has enabled organizations to streamline network operations, allowing for efficient handling of network changes and upgrades.
The following sections will detail the specifics of Cisco IOS and its variants supported by Network Services Orchestrator, the methods of integration, and potential limitations or considerations for different Cisco IOS versions. Furthermore, the document will explore strategies for successful deployment and operation, ensuring optimal performance and utilization of the automation platform.
1. NED Compatibility
Network Element Drivers (NEDs) serve as the critical interface between Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) and specific network devices, dictating the extent to which Cisco IOS versions can be managed and automated. The availability and sophistication of a NED directly determine the features and functionality NSO can leverage on a given Cisco IOS device. Consequently, the question of supported IOS versions is inherently linked to the existence and capabilities of corresponding NEDs.
For instance, a basic NED might support core configuration tasks, such as interface management and routing protocol settings on a specific IOS version, while lacking the capacity to manage more advanced features like quality of service or network address translation. Conversely, a more comprehensive NED would enable NSO to orchestrate a wider range of configurations and operations, potentially across multiple IOS versions within a specific Cisco platform. The development and maintenance of these NEDs are crucial for ensuring that NSO remains compatible with evolving IOS releases and hardware platforms.
In summary, NED compatibility is the foundational element determining which Cisco IOS versions can be effectively integrated into an NSO-managed environment. The absence or limitations of a NED directly restrict the scope of automation and management possible for a particular IOS device, highlighting the need for diligent NED selection and maintenance in network automation strategies.
2. IOS Version Support
Cisco IOS version support directly influences the applicability and effectiveness of Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) within a network infrastructure. The specific IOS version running on a device dictates the available features, command syntax, and overall behavior, thereby affecting the capabilities and limitations of NSO integration.
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Feature Availability
Newer Cisco IOS versions often introduce new features and functionalities not present in older releases. NSO’s ability to leverage these features is contingent on the availability of corresponding Network Element Drivers (NEDs) and the platform’s ability to translate high-level service models into device-specific configurations. Conversely, if a NED is designed for an older IOS version, it may not be able to exploit newer features, limiting the orchestration capabilities on those devices. Therefore, the version of IOS determines the upper bound of features that NSO can manage.
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Command Syntax and Structure
Cisco IOS command syntax and structure can evolve across different versions. These changes often require updates to the NEDs within NSO to ensure accurate interpretation and configuration of devices. Without the appropriate NED support for a specific IOS version, NSO may generate incorrect or non-functional configurations, potentially disrupting network operations. Ensuring NEDs are updated to align with the precise syntax and structure of the target IOS version is critical for seamless integration.
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Security Considerations
IOS versions address different security vulnerabilities and implement varying security protocols. NSO deployments must account for these security considerations to ensure the overall network environment remains protected. For example, if a device is running an older, unsupported IOS version with known vulnerabilities, integrating it into an NSO-managed environment without proper security measures can expose the entire network to risk. NSO can be leveraged to enforce security policies consistently across the infrastructure, but the effectiveness relies on the underlying IOS security capabilities.
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NED Development and Maintenance
NED development and maintenance efforts are often prioritized based on the prevalence and strategic importance of different IOS versions. While widely deployed IOS versions receive robust NED support, older or less common versions may have limited or outdated NEDs. This disparity can result in uneven NSO support across a network with heterogeneous IOS versions. The availability of a well-maintained NED is often the deciding factor for whether a specific Cisco IOS version can be effectively managed through NSO.
In summary, the degree of IOS version support forms a cornerstone of any successful Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) implementation within a Cisco environment. Feature availability, command syntax, security considerations, and NED development all contribute to determining which Cisco IOS versions can be effectively integrated and managed by NSO. These factors underscore the necessity of careful planning and NED selection to ensure consistent and reliable orchestration across the network.
3. Configuration Templates
Configuration templates are integral to the efficient operation of Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) across various Cisco IOS versions. They serve as blueprints that define standardized configurations for network devices. The applicability of these templates is directly influenced by the specific Cisco IOS version in use. An effective template designed for a newer IOS version may not function correctly, or at all, on an older version due to variations in command syntax, feature availability, or underlying platform architecture. This dependency necessitates the creation and maintenance of separate templates tailored to different IOS versions within a network. For instance, a configuration template defining QoS policies on a Cisco router running IOS XE might include commands that are unsupported or have different syntax on a router running an older IOS version. The absence of IOS-specific templates can lead to configuration errors, service disruptions, and inconsistent network behavior.
The use of configuration templates allows network engineers to abstract the complexities of device-level configuration. Instead of manually configuring each device, NSO can apply the appropriate template based on device attributes such as IOS version, device type, and role within the network. This approach streamlines the configuration process, reduces human error, and ensures consistent deployment of network services. A practical example involves deploying a standardized VLAN configuration across a network with routers running different IOS versions. NSO can select and apply the correct VLAN template based on the IOS version, ensuring that the VLAN is configured correctly on each device, regardless of its IOS version. This capability is particularly valuable in large, heterogeneous networks where manual configuration would be time-consuming and error-prone.
In conclusion, configuration templates are essential for leveraging NSO effectively across varied Cisco IOS versions. The need for version-specific templates highlights the importance of careful planning and management of configuration assets. Challenges arise in maintaining a comprehensive library of templates that accounts for the diversity of IOS versions and device types within a network. However, the benefits of standardized, automated configuration outweigh the maintenance overhead. By employing well-designed, version-aware configuration templates, network operators can achieve significant improvements in operational efficiency, consistency, and reliability, ultimately maximizing the value of NSO in complex Cisco environments.
4. Transaction Management
Transaction management constitutes a critical function within Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) deployments, particularly when interacting with Cisco IOS devices. The efficacy of transaction management directly influences the stability and reliability of network configurations orchestrated by NSO. In essence, transaction management ensures that a series of configuration changes are applied to a device as a single, atomic unit. If any part of the configuration fails, the entire transaction is rolled back, preventing partial or inconsistent configurations. The ability to perform atomic configuration changes is directly related to “which Cisco IOS use NSO” effectively, because the underlying operating system must support mechanisms for consistent configuration updates, whether through transactional CLI commands or APIs.
The interaction between transaction management and various Cisco IOS versions manifests in several ways. Older IOS versions may lack robust transactional capabilities, which can necessitate the use of alternative strategies, such as checkpointing the configuration before applying changes. Newer IOS versions, particularly those based on IOS XE, often provide more granular control and support for transactional CLI commands or NETCONF, enabling NSO to perform more reliable and efficient configuration updates. For example, consider a scenario where NSO needs to update multiple routing protocol parameters on a Cisco router. Without proper transaction management, if one parameter update fails due to a syntax error or resource constraint, the router could end up with a partially configured routing protocol, potentially disrupting network traffic. With transaction management, if any update fails, the entire configuration is reverted, preventing such inconsistencies.
In summary, robust transaction management is paramount to maintain network integrity when using NSO with Cisco IOS devices. Different IOS versions present varying levels of transactional support, which in turn impacts the implementation strategies and reliability of NSO-driven network automation. The selection of appropriate NEDs and configuration practices that leverage the transactional capabilities of the underlying IOS version becomes crucial to ensure that network configurations are applied consistently and reliably, regardless of the specific IOS version in use. The potential challenges involve working with legacy IOS versions that lack modern transactional features, requiring more sophisticated error handling and rollback mechanisms within NSO.
5. Data Model Driven
The “Data Model Driven” approach fundamentally shapes how Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) interacts with Cisco IOS devices. This approach defines a structured, abstract representation of network configurations and services, enabling NSO to automate and manage devices regardless of the underlying command-line interface (CLI) or other device-specific details. This abstraction is particularly relevant when considering “which Cisco IOS use NSO” because it allows NSO to support a wide range of IOS versions and device types through a unified interface.
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YANG Models and NSO
YANG (Yet Another Next Generation) is a data modeling language used extensively within NSO. YANG models define the structure and constraints of configuration data for network devices. NSO uses these models to generate device configurations and validate the state of the network. For Cisco IOS devices, YANG models provide a standardized way to represent IOS configurations, abstracting away the specific CLI commands. For example, a YANG model for BGP configuration would define parameters such as AS number, neighbor IP addresses, and routing policies, enabling NSO to configure BGP across different IOS versions using a consistent data model. The relevance to “which Cisco IOS use NSO” is that the availability of comprehensive and accurate YANG models significantly impacts the degree to which NSO can automate a particular IOS version.
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Abstraction of Device Specifics
The data model driven approach abstracts away the device-specific nuances of Cisco IOS. NSO doesn’t directly interact with CLI commands; instead, it manipulates data structures defined by the YANG models. This abstraction allows NSO to support a variety of IOS versions without requiring extensive modifications to the orchestration logic. Consider a scenario where a network operator needs to configure an interface VLAN on multiple Cisco devices running different IOS versions. Using a data model driven approach, NSO would interact with a generic interface VLAN data model, and the appropriate Network Element Driver (NED) would translate this data model into the specific CLI commands required for each device’s IOS version. This ensures consistency and simplifies network automation, regardless of “which Cisco IOS use NSO.”
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Configuration Validation and Compliance
Data models enable NSO to perform robust configuration validation and compliance checks. By comparing the actual device configuration against the desired state defined in the data model, NSO can identify deviations and automatically remediate them. This is especially important in heterogeneous networks where different IOS versions may have subtle differences in configuration behavior. For example, NSO can use YANG models to enforce a standard security policy across all Cisco IOS devices, ensuring that all devices comply with the policy regardless of their specific IOS version. Therefore, data models enable consistent policy enforcement across different devices in the context of “which Cisco IOS use NSO.”
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Extensibility and Customization
The data model driven approach allows for extensibility and customization of NSO. Network operators can extend existing YANG models or create new ones to support custom configurations or features specific to their network. This is crucial for organizations that have unique requirements or rely on proprietary extensions to Cisco IOS. For example, an organization might develop a custom YANG model to manage a specific feature only available in certain IOS versions or to integrate with their internal management systems. This flexibility is critical for adapting NSO to specific network needs, making data models adaptable for organizations facing the question of “which Cisco IOS use NSO.”
In summary, the “Data Model Driven” approach is pivotal to NSO’s ability to manage and automate diverse Cisco IOS environments effectively. YANG models provide a standardized representation of network configurations, abstracting away device-specific details and enabling consistent policy enforcement. This approach enables NSO to support a wide range of IOS versions, simplifying network automation and ensuring compliance across heterogeneous networks. The availability and quality of YANG models and NEDs are critical factors to consider when evaluating the feasibility of using NSO with particular Cisco IOS versions.
6. Service Automation
Service automation represents a core objective for organizations deploying Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) within Cisco network environments. The degree to which service automation can be achieved is intrinsically linked to “which Cisco IOS use NSO.” Full service automation necessitates that NSO can configure, monitor, and maintain network services across all relevant devices, including those running different IOS versions. The underlying cause-and-effect relationship is clear: a limited range of supported IOS versions restricts the scope of services that can be automated across the network. For instance, if a critical segment of the network infrastructure relies on an older IOS version that lacks comprehensive NSO support, then end-to-end service automation is compromised.
Real-life examples underscore the practical significance of this understanding. Consider a service provider aiming to automate the provisioning of virtual private networks (VPNs). If their network comprises a mix of Cisco routers running various IOS versions, their ability to automate VPN creation and management consistently hinges on NSO’s compatibility with each IOS version. If NSO can only manage the newest IOS releases, manual intervention will be required for routers running older versions, undermining the benefits of automation. This creates operational inefficiencies, increases the risk of human error, and slows down service delivery. Similarly, an enterprise attempting to automate network security policies must ensure that NSO supports the IOS versions deployed on all relevant firewalls and access control devices.
In conclusion, the practical significance of the correlation between service automation and “which Cisco IOS use NSO” is evident. Organizations must carefully evaluate the IOS version landscape within their network and the corresponding NSO support before embarking on service automation initiatives. A comprehensive assessment of IOS compatibility is essential to realize the full potential of NSO and avoid creating automation islands that diminish overall operational efficiency. Challenges often arise from the need to manage heterogeneous IOS environments, requiring a phased approach to upgrading IOS versions or developing custom NSO solutions for unsupported devices. Success depends on selecting appropriate Network Element Drivers (NEDs) and establishing robust configuration management practices that address the diverse needs of different IOS versions.
7. Scalability Impacts
The ability of Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) to manage an expanding network environment, its scalability, is directly influenced by the specific Cisco IOS versions deployed within that environment. The interaction between NSO’s scalability and “which Cisco IOS use NSO” requires careful consideration to avoid performance bottlenecks and ensure consistent automation across the network.
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NED Performance and IOS Version
The efficiency of Network Element Drivers (NEDs) plays a crucial role in NSO’s scalability. NEDs that are not optimized for particular Cisco IOS versions can introduce significant overhead, especially in large networks. For instance, if a NED relies on inefficient CLI parsing for an older IOS version, each configuration transaction will consume more resources and time, reducing the number of devices NSO can manage concurrently. In contrast, NEDs that leverage NETCONF or other APIs for newer IOS versions can significantly improve performance and scalability. A practical example is a network with thousands of devices running a mix of IOS and IOS XE. If the IOS devices require resource-intensive CLI-based interactions, NSO’s overall scalability will be limited compared to a scenario where all devices support more efficient management protocols.
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Configuration Complexity and IOS Features
The complexity of network configurations and the features available in different IOS versions also affect scalability. Older IOS versions may lack certain features that simplify configuration management, requiring more complex and verbose configurations. This increased complexity adds to the processing overhead on both NSO and the network devices, reducing the overall scalability. For example, if a newer IOS version supports a hierarchical configuration structure, NSO can manage related settings more efficiently compared to an older version where each setting must be configured individually. The ability of NSO to leverage modern IOS features has a direct impact on the number of devices and services it can manage effectively.
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Transaction Management Overhead
The overhead associated with transaction management can become a limiting factor as the network scales. While transaction management is essential for ensuring configuration consistency, it also adds processing overhead. Different IOS versions may require different transaction management strategies, some of which are more efficient than others. For example, if an IOS version lacks native support for atomic transactions, NSO may need to implement a two-phase commit protocol, which adds significant overhead. The more devices that require such complex transaction management, the lower NSO’s overall scalability will be. Organizations must carefully balance the need for transaction consistency with the potential impact on scalability, considering the transactional capabilities of each IOS version in use.
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Resource Utilization on NSO Server
The resources consumed by NSO on the server itself, such as CPU, memory, and network bandwidth, are directly related to the number of devices it manages and the complexity of the configurations being applied. The distribution of IOS versions within the network affects these resource demands. A network with a high proportion of older IOS devices requiring inefficient NEDs will place a greater strain on the NSO server compared to a network with predominantly newer IOS devices supporting more streamlined management protocols. Monitoring and optimizing resource utilization on the NSO server is essential for maintaining scalability as the network grows, taking into account the performance characteristics of the NEDs used for different IOS versions.
In summary, the scalability of Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) is intricately tied to “which Cisco IOS use NSO.” NED performance, configuration complexity, transaction management overhead, and NSO server resource utilization all contribute to determining the maximum scale that can be achieved. Organizations must carefully assess the IOS version landscape within their network and select appropriate NEDs and configuration strategies to ensure that NSO can effectively manage the network as it grows.
8. API Integration
Application Programming Interface (API) integration plays a pivotal role in determining the effectiveness of Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) in managing Cisco IOS devices. The extent and type of API support provided by a specific IOS version directly affects the capabilities and efficiency of NSO-driven automation. A robust API allows for programmatic interaction with the device, enabling NSO to perform configuration, monitoring, and operational tasks without relying solely on the command-line interface (CLI). Consequently, the degree of API integration profoundly influences the extent to which NSO can automate and manage network services across varied Cisco IOS environments.
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NETCONF/RESTCONF Availability and Capabilities
NETCONF and RESTCONF are modern network management protocols that utilize APIs for device configuration and monitoring. Newer Cisco IOS versions, particularly those based on IOS XE, often provide comprehensive NETCONF/RESTCONF support, enabling NSO to manage these devices using structured data models and standardized protocols. This approach significantly improves performance and reliability compared to CLI-based management. For instance, with NETCONF, NSO can perform atomic configuration transactions, ensuring that changes are applied consistently and reliably. The absence of NETCONF/RESTCONF support in older IOS versions necessitates the use of less efficient CLI-based methods, limiting the scope of automation and increasing operational overhead. The capabilities of these APIs determine the type and range of configuration parameters that can be automated, affecting the granularity and precision of network service provisioning.
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YANG Model Support
YANG (Yet Another Next Generation) data models define the structure and semantics of configuration data for network devices. NSO relies on YANG models to generate device configurations and validate the network state. Cisco IOS devices with comprehensive YANG model support enable NSO to interact with them using structured data rather than raw CLI commands. This abstraction simplifies network automation and ensures consistency across different IOS versions. For example, if a device provides a YANG model for BGP configuration, NSO can use this model to configure BGP parameters regardless of the underlying CLI syntax. The completeness and accuracy of YANG models directly affect the functionality and reliability of NSO-driven automation. Older IOS versions may have limited or incomplete YANG model support, requiring NSO to rely on CLI-based methods for certain configurations.
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Programmability Features (e.g., Embedded Event Manager)
Some Cisco IOS versions include programmability features such as the Embedded Event Manager (EEM), which allows network operators to define custom scripts and policies that run directly on the device. API integration with these features allows NSO to automate device-level operations and integrate them into broader orchestration workflows. For example, NSO can use EEM scripts to monitor specific network events and trigger automated responses, such as adjusting routing policies or disabling interfaces. The availability and capabilities of these programmability features influence the degree to which NSO can customize and extend network automation beyond basic configuration management. The level of access to such programmability elements affects the ability to customize and manage device behavior through NSO.
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Legacy API Support (e.g., SNMP)
Older Cisco IOS versions often rely on legacy APIs such as SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) for monitoring and management. While SNMP provides basic device information, it lacks the advanced configuration and transaction management capabilities of modern APIs like NETCONF. API integration with SNMP allows NSO to collect device statistics and monitor network health, but it may not be sufficient for comprehensive automation. For example, NSO can use SNMP to monitor interface utilization or CPU load, but it cannot use SNMP to configure complex routing policies. The reliance on legacy APIs limits the scope of NSO-driven automation and requires the use of CLI-based methods for more complex tasks. The capabilities of such APIs define the depth of monitoring data and operational visibility that can be achieved through NSO.
In conclusion, the degree of API integration is a critical determinant of NSO’s effectiveness in managing Cisco IOS devices. The availability of modern APIs like NETCONF/RESTCONF and comprehensive YANG model support enables NSO to automate and manage devices using structured data and standardized protocols. Conversely, reliance on legacy APIs or CLI-based methods limits the scope of automation and increases operational overhead. Therefore, the selection of appropriate Network Element Drivers (NEDs) and the careful consideration of API capabilities for each IOS version are essential for maximizing the value of NSO in Cisco network environments. The API capabilities within each IOS version determine the extent to which NSO can automate and manage network services, directly impacting operational efficiency and network agility.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following addresses common inquiries regarding the compatibility and integration of Cisco IOS versions with Network Services Orchestrator (NSO).
Question 1: What is the primary factor determining if a Cisco IOS version can be used with NSO?
The availability and capabilities of a corresponding Network Element Driver (NED) are paramount. The NED serves as the interface between NSO and the device, translating high-level service models into device-specific configurations.
Question 2: Does NSO support all Cisco IOS versions equally?
No. Support varies based on the NED’s development and maintenance. Widely deployed and strategically important IOS versions typically receive more robust NED support compared to older or less common versions.
Question 3: How do different Cisco IOS versions impact NSO’s scalability?
Older IOS versions may require more resource-intensive CLI-based interactions, limiting the number of devices NSO can manage concurrently. Newer IOS versions with NETCONF or RESTCONF support generally improve scalability.
Question 4: Why are configuration templates important when using NSO with multiple IOS versions?
Configuration templates ensure consistency and reduce manual errors. Templates should be tailored to specific IOS versions due to variations in command syntax and feature availability.
Question 5: How does transaction management affect NSO deployments across different IOS versions?
Transaction management ensures that configuration changes are applied atomically. Older IOS versions may lack robust transactional capabilities, requiring alternative strategies and potentially increasing complexity.
Question 6: What role do YANG models play in NSO’s interaction with Cisco IOS devices?
YANG models provide a standardized representation of IOS configurations, abstracting away device-specific details and enabling consistent policy enforcement across different IOS versions.
Key takeaways include the importance of NEDs, the impact of IOS versions on scalability and transaction management, and the role of data models in achieving consistent automation across diverse Cisco environments.
The subsequent section will delve into practical considerations for deploying and maintaining NSO within a Cisco IOS environment.
Deployment and Maintenance Tips
The subsequent recommendations are essential for ensuring a successful and sustainable deployment of Network Services Orchestrator (NSO) within a Cisco IOS environment.
Tip 1: Conduct a Thorough IOS Version Audit: Prior to implementing NSO, perform a detailed audit of all Cisco devices within the network. Identify the specific IOS versions running on each device to determine NED compatibility and potential limitations. This provides a realistic assessment of which devices NSO can manage effectively. Consider upgrading outdated IOS versions to more recent releases to enhance NSO’s reach and capabilities.
Tip 2: Prioritize NED Selection and Testing: Carefully evaluate the available Network Element Drivers (NEDs) for each IOS version. Select NEDs that offer comprehensive feature support and efficient performance. Thoroughly test NEDs in a lab environment before deploying them in production to identify and resolve any compatibility issues.
Tip 3: Develop Version-Specific Configuration Templates: Create and maintain separate configuration templates tailored to each IOS version within the network. These templates should account for variations in command syntax, feature availability, and configuration behavior. This approach ensures consistency and reduces the risk of configuration errors.
Tip 4: Implement Robust Transaction Management: Employ transaction management techniques to ensure that configuration changes are applied atomically. For older IOS versions lacking native transaction support, consider using checkpointing mechanisms to revert to a known good state in case of failure.
Tip 5: Leverage Data Models for Abstraction: Utilize YANG models to abstract away device-specific details and enable consistent policy enforcement across different IOS versions. Encourage the use of standardized data models whenever possible to simplify network automation.
Tip 6: Monitor NSO Performance and Resource Utilization: Continuously monitor NSO’s performance and resource utilization (CPU, memory, network bandwidth). Identify and address any performance bottlenecks caused by inefficient NEDs or complex configurations. Optimize NSO server resources to ensure scalability as the network grows.
Tip 7: Establish a Rigorous Change Management Process: Implement a well-defined change management process for all NSO-driven network modifications. This process should include thorough testing, validation, and rollback procedures to minimize the risk of service disruptions.
Adherence to these guidelines ensures a smooth and efficient deployment of NSO within a Cisco IOS environment. A proactive and well-planned approach is crucial for maximizing the benefits of network automation and orchestration.
The concluding segment will summarize the critical elements discussed throughout this article.
Conclusion
The preceding analysis has detailed the intricacies of determining “which Cisco IOS use NSO,” revealing that Network Element Driver (NED) compatibility is the central determinant. Further, the scope of feasible automation is significantly affected by the IOS version, as more recent releases often possess enhanced API support and streamlined features. The efficacy of configuration templates, transaction management protocols, and data models are also intertwined with the specific IOS version in use. The deployment and operational impact on an automation platform hinges on the careful analysis of these factors.
The successful integration of a Cisco network with Network Services Orchestrator relies on meticulous planning and a thorough understanding of the interplay between IOS versions and NSO’s capabilities. Organizations must remain vigilant in assessing NED availability, developing version-specific configurations, and optimizing NSO’s performance to leverage the benefits of automation effectively. Continual monitoring and adherence to established change management processes are critical to ensuring a robust and scalable network environment.
