How AI-Based Problem Solvers Could Help Cisco Network Troubleshooting

[hellencharless54]

Hi everyone 

I am an enthusiast of word and logic games like NYT Letter Boxed, and it got me interested in a bigger question: how AI tools and reasoning models could be applied in real-world network troubleshooting and best practices.

In games like Letter Boxed you identify constraints and find optimal connections between letters in networking it is similar when we look at constraints in configurations, topology issues, or protocol behaviors. This makes me wonder how AI reasoning could support real network professionals in finding patterns faster.

I’d love to learn from your experience on a few ideas:

1. Have you ever used AI-based tools (like ChatGPT, generative agents, or automated assistants) to help troubleshoot Cisco network issues?
   If yes, in what parts of the process were they most helpful (e.g., translating logs, suggesting command sequences, interpreting error messages)?

2. What best practices do you recommend when using AI or automation with Cisco gear?
   Especially around verification, safety, and reducing misconfigurations.

3. Do you see potential for AI-augmented troubleshooting within Cisco tools (like Cisco DNA Center, AI network analytics, or TAC support)?
   If so, what capabilities would be most valuable?

I am interested in this intersection between logical pattern solving and real world network problem solving. Looking forward to hearing your insights!

Thanks in advance 

[timo42heren]

Instead of flipping through command references, engineers use AI to generate precise, contextual show commands to verify state (e.g., checking specific BGP neighbor states or tracing a MAC address through a VLAN fabric) or remediation scripts. 
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[aleabrahao]

I believe you might find it interesting to take a look at these links.

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/cloud-systems-management/network-automation-and-management/catalyst-center-assurance/2-3-7/b_cisco_catalyst_assurance_2_3_7_ug/b_cisco_catalyst_assurance_2_3_6_ug_chapter_010.pdf

https://documentation.meraki.com/Platform_Management/Dashboard_Administration/Troubleshooting_and_Support/Support/AI_Assistant_for_Networking

https://www.ijirmps.org/papers/2024/4/232223.pdf