Overview

This course is designed to take you through the essential aspects of network security and automation, covering foundational principles, advanced configurations, and real-world applications. Beginning with an introduction to network security, you’ll explore critical topics such as device access management and infrastructure protection. You'll gain hands-on experience configuring privilege levels, AAA services, and access control lists (ACLs), ensuring you can apply these skills in any network environment. As you progress, the course delves into wireless security, offering insights into protocols, encryption, and authentication methods that secure wireless communications. You’ll engage with practical labs to configure EAP, WebAuth, and PSK security settings, solidifying your understanding through real-world scenarios. The focus then shifts to automation, where you’ll learn about network programmability, data models, and popular orchestration tools like Ansible and SaltStack, equipping you with the skills to streamline and optimize network operations. The final modules prepare you for certification exams, covering study strategies, registration steps, and exam day tips. This comprehensive course ensures you not only master network security and automation but are also fully prepared to demonstrate your knowledge through certification. This course is ideal for network engineers, IT professionals, and system administrators seeking to enhance their network security and automation skills. A basic understanding of networking concepts and some experience with network devices is recommended.

Syllabus

Introduction - Network Security

In this module, we will introduce the foundational concepts of network security. You’ll gain an understanding of core security principles and learn about the essential elements that help secure network infrastructure from various threats.

Device Access Security

In this module, we will delve into securing device access through various methods like privilege levels, line passwords, and AAA configurations. You’ll engage in lab exercises to reinforce these concepts and ensure robust access control for your network devices.

Infrastructure Security

In this module, we will explore advanced infrastructure security measures, focusing on ACL configurations and Control Plane Policing. You’ll learn to apply these techniques to control and protect traffic within your network.

Wireless Security

In this module, we will focus on securing wireless networks using different authentication protocols and methods. You’ll understand how to enhance wireless security through practical configurations and theoretical insights.

Security Design Considerations

In this module, we will cover critical security design considerations, from endpoint protection to advanced firewall configurations. You’ll gain insights into integrating robust security measures within your network architecture.

Network Automation

In this module, we will introduce the concept of network automation and its role in streamlining network operations. You’ll explore the benefits and foundational tools that enable automated network management.

Network Programmability Foundations

In this module, we will dive into the foundations of network programmability, focusing on data representation and modeling. You’ll learn how these elements contribute to creating programmable and adaptable network environments.

Python Programming

In this module, we will cover Python programming essentials for network automation. You’ll learn to use Python’s capabilities to create scripts that automate network tasks, enhancing your ability to manage complex networks efficiently.

Network Configuration with Data Models

In this module, we will explore the use of data models in network configuration, focusing on the NETCONF and RESTCONF protocols. You’ll learn how to leverage these tools for effective network automation and management.

Orchestration Tools

In this module, we will cover the use of orchestration tools to automate network configurations and deployments. You’ll gain an understanding of how these tools work and how they can be used to simplify complex network tasks.

Network Automation with Cisco DNA Center and vManage

In this module, we will explore Cisco DNA Center and vManage, focusing on their capabilities in network automation. You’ll learn to interact with these platforms using APIs, enabling more efficient and secure network management.

Exam Preparation

In this module, we will guide you through preparing for your certification exam, offering strategies and resources to help you succeed. You’ll learn how to register, plan your study sessions, and handle exam day confidently.

Next Steps

In this module, we will discuss the next steps in your professional journey, focusing on leveraging your new skills for career growth. You’ll get guidance on further learning opportunities and how to strategically advance in your field.