Scripting languages to learn for being a Cisco Engineer

Hello Forum:

I am currently a university student. I am pursuing my CCENT in October and have a few questions in regards to scripting languages. I would like to be a Cisco Engineer within 5 years of graduating (or there about). I am looking for scripting languages to make my life easier and for easier automation of common tasks. I have been looking at the Expect scripting language since it is Tcl based. Are there any other scripting languages that are used solely with Cisco equipment (no Python or Perl references I have tried both and don't necessary care for them). I also would like to use a language that is resume worthy. Thanks forum!!

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Comments

shodown

A lot of shops surprisingly don't have too many people that can do scripting. However if you really want to be good you can learn one that you didn't want to learn. I use python a lot for some of the things that I do. A friend of mine uses a combination of excel and visual basic and he can do some crazy things. You can use whatever language you choose I know people who even use powershell for cisco work.

FloOz

You may not "care" for them. But Python IS the scripting language to learn for network engineers. Not only is it built into Nexus and Arista devices, but it is also the easiest language to pick up.

powmia

Second that... Python. If everyone on your team writes in python, and your organization's entire automation library is built on python, your tcl or whatever is going to be useless. The world of network engineering is adopting python, many clouds are being maintained with python, I suggest getting over first impressions and picking up python. Most people that aren't fond of it at first tend to never go back once they've been using python for a while. Nowadays, python is one of the most resume worthy. If you like expect, check out pexpect.

Ryuksapple84

I agree completely. I recently interviewed and they specifically asked for Python Scripting. I would just bite the bullet and learn it.

arrogantbastard

The most common scripting languages I've seen among engineers is python or perl, so deal with it.

Jon_Cisco

My goal was to start Python this summer but I got pushed back on my CCNA studies. It will have to wait as I have to many other things going on with my new semester. Maybe during the winter break I'll get a chance to read a book on it.

anoeljr

Checkout CodeAcademy. They have a 13 hour course on Python. I've heard good things about that site and you may enjoy it.

theodoxa

arrogantbastard wrote: »

The most common scripting languages I've seen among engineers is python or perl, so deal with it.

Do people still use Perl? I used to know Perl back in the day (even had a course on it in the context of web design), but have since migrated to PHP (web) and Python (desktop).

networker050184

Still a lot of perl out there from what I've seen. Most new stuff our networking devs have been writing is still in perl with some python getting in there. A lot of good Cisco script examples online in perl you can grab and modify for your needs.

davenull

It's good to hear Python is popular among network engineers. I was using Python even before I decided to go for Cisco certifications.

A question for those in the field - do you ever use object-oriented programming in Python?

I've done a bit of Python scripting but not in OOP style, because basic scripting worked well enough for what I needed it for.
Can I safely list Python skills on my resume?

Krusader

I'll be tackling this after my CCNA Sec studies. I've heard good things about it. It uses Python 2.7 i believe

Learn Python

Pupil

Linux + Python + Cisco devices = WIN. It's the reason I pursued Linux+ before treading down the Cisco certification route.

[Deleted User]

I have tried CodeAcademy and LearnPythonTheHardWay I will go over it some more again and bite the bullet. I understand the basics of Python (getting user input, datatypes, tupiles, loops such as for, do while conditional statements if and try-catch) but not to the point where I can make an administrative script to backup user data. Other than docs.python.org and pypi.python.org, what other sites are there for making these types of scripts? (if that makes sense) Also, from any experience network admin/engineer, is Expect widely used or is it a luxury language as I call it(nice to know but not necessary)

DoubleNNs

https://pynet.twb-tech.com/
I believe the site has a free 13 week e-mail list where every week you get lessons on Python Scripting specifically geared towards network automation. (There should be another thread.. or 3.. here on TE about the mailing list.)
At the end of the lessons, occasionally you'll receive quick tips/lessons. The creator is also in the process of creating more formal classes on the topic.

powmia

Python Programming for Network Engineers - INE

ccnxjr

Our very own ktbyers occasionally offers a free e-mail based course:
http://www.techexams.net/forums/off-topic/99841-python-network-engineers-10-week-program.html

as well as a paid version,

[Deleted User]

Just what I was looking for! Thank you Forum!

joetest

It's not absolutely necessary but oh boy it's a nice skill to possess. I use Python with pexpect and Expect every once in a while (mixing it up) - makes life easier.

YFZblu

kMastaFlash wrote: »

I understand the basics of Python (getting user input, datatypes, tupiles, loops such as for, do while conditional statements if and try-catch) but not to the point where I can make an administrative script to backup user data.

This is a common problem. You know enough to print Hello World, but aren't very functional with it. For the most part, being useful with a language comes with 'doing'. Come up with an idea for a project, and get started. IMO, that's how you tie it all together. It's a grind but worth it.

And yes, as someone already posted, the course for network engineers is another good place to start.

ktbyers

FYI, I recently opened up the sign-up page for the Python for Network Engineers course. The next course is going to start on 10/2. The sign-up page is at https://pynet.twb-tech.com/email-signup.html