If you're looking to automate network device configuration using Python, there are several powerful libraries and tools available. Below is a summary of some key options:
| Library | Connection | Data Model | Devices Support |
| YDK-Py | SSH, NETCONF | YANG | All devices supporting YANG |
| NAPALM | SSH, NETCONF, XML | YANG | Arista EOS, Cisco IOS, Cisco IOS-XR, Cisco NX-OS, Juniper JunOS |
| Netmiko | SSH | No data model uses CLI | Any device that supports SSH |
| PyEZ | SSH, NETCONF | YANG | Juniper devices |
Key Highlights:
- YDK-Py: A Python library developed by Cisco, providing APIs that abstract YANG models, making it easier to interact with devices supporting YANG data models.
- NAPALM: A multi-vendor library that supports several connection types and offers a consistent API across various platforms.
- Netmiko: A simplified Python library for SSH connections to network devices, ideal for CLI-based automation.
- PyEZ: A Python library tailored for Juniper devices, supporting YANG models and NETCONF protocol for a more structured configuration approach.
Each tool has its strengths, depending on the type of devices you're working with and the level of abstraction you need. Whether you're dealing with complex YANG models or simply automating CLI commands, these libraries offer flexible solutions for network automation.
