Introduction to Python for Network Engineers Online Training

Taught by

UPDATED: October 20, 2021

Intermediate

This foundational Python for Network Engineers course equips you with the practical scripting skills needed to automate modern networks. Designed for networking professionals with zero Python experience, this course will help you learn Python fundamentals, object-oriented programming, data types, and control flow. Learn to work with YAML, JSON, and CSV data formats, and use libraries like Netmiko, NAPALM, Scrapli, and Requests to automate routers, switches, and APIs. Explore REST API integration, configuration templating with Jinja2, and multithreading for concurrent device access. You’ll also get experience with version control (Git/GitHub), virtual environments, automated testing (Pytest), and Python best practices like PEP 8, linting, and unit testing. Build real-world skills in network programmability, and infrastructure automation. Start your network automation journey here.

Start a free week

Subscription options

$59.00

Access all premium content with a free week!

Quizzes
CyberVista® IT practice exams
Coaching
IT learner community

Start a free week

See training reviews

What you'll learn with Python Network Automation training

Automating configuration changes across multi-vendor network devices
Parsing and generating structured data with YAML, JSON, and XML
Writing reusable Python code with functions, loops, and conditionals
Managing REST APIs, HTTP methods, and network device responses'
Building configuration templates using Jinja2 and Python variables
Using Netmiko, NAPALM, and Scrapli for SSH-based network automation

Python Network Automation training FAQs

Is it worth it for a network engineer to learn Python?

Python's versatility and extensive libraries make it a powerful tool for improving and simplifying tasks like network automation, configuration management, monitoring, and troubleshooting. Network engineers who know Python can reduce human error in their configs and implementations, plus they'll be ready to adapt to new network technologies. Advanced networks require deep automation and orchestration, and Python is the preferred language for providing it.

What exactly can a network engineer do with Python?

Network engineers don't necessarily need to know how to write code to do their jobs. Configuration management and device optimization doesn't tend to happen exclusively with Python. But it's safe to say that there's practically nothing you can do as a network engineer that can't be done faster, more efficiently, and with less repetition if it's done with Python. From provisioning, to ensuring consistent network states, to sending email alerts, knowing Python simply makes a network engineer more employable.

Is this Python for network engineers course associated with any certifications?

No, this course on Python isn't directly connected to any official certification. Generally speaking, languages like Python don't have an official governing body issuing certifications. There are edge cases – for example, Cisco's advanced certifications have one core exam and several elective exams to choose from. This course on writing Python code to automate network behavior could help with elective exams such as 300-435 ENAUTO which covers automation for Cisco Enterprise solutions.

Will Python skills for a network engineer ever expire or go out-of-date?

No, Python skills for a network engineer won't expire in the foreseeable future. Python is extremely versatile, and it has been widely adopted in the networking community. Specific libraries and frameworks will almost certainly evolve, but the fundamental Python programming skills, familiarity with automation, and problem-solving techniques you'll learn in this Python course are going to become only more valuable as networks become more complex and require greater degrees of orchestration.

How should you study Python for network engineers?

If you've ever tried to learn a programming language, you know that the best way to learn is with hands-on practice. This course spends time explaining Python scripts and syntax through short, easy-to-digest videos, but it provides you plenty of chances to practice what you're learning. The best way to study Python as a network engineer is in virtual sims and simulated environments where someone has set up a specific challenge and you can experiment safely with possible solutions.

Who is Python Network Automation training for?

This Python for Network Engineers training is considered foundational-level programming training, which means it was designed for network administrators with 1 to 3 years in network experience, but no experience at all in Python.

What our learners say

This is the gold standard of video training. You always hear in grade school or college that the best teachers are the ones who are passionate in their field. The CBT Nuggets team are extremely passionate and get you motivated for the material.
Michael J. | IS&T Major Incident Manager
You constantly have to invest in training for your people.
Rick N. | CEO
The more I put into learning, the more skills I’m going to have — and the better I’m going to be technically.
Knox Hutchinson | CBT Nuggets trainer since 2018

Study plan

Download the free Python Network Automation study plan to complete this course in about 22 hours.

Download study plan