The Everything Feed - All Packet Pushers Pods TCG056: Network Automation Reality Check with Ivan Pepelnjak
Aug 20, 2025
Join networking expert Ivan Pepelnjak as he shares unfiltered insights on the realities of network automation. The conversation dives into why projects often fail and critiques popular tools like Ansible, Terraform, and Python. Ivan highlights the cultural barriers that hinder enterprise modernization and the complexities of managing both legacy and new technologies. With engaging anecdotes, he stresses the need for tailored solutions and integration of software engineering principles in networking for greater effectiveness.
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Early Automation Born From Necessity
- Ivan Pepelnjak described building a Perl+Access tool to auto-provision Cisco dial-in access in the modem era.
- He used faxed forms and Visual Basic forms so nonengineers could trigger router configs automatically.
Automation Amplifies Existing Messes
- Automation amplifies existing design and process flaws rather than fixing them.
- Vendors sell fairy-tale solutions that often buy purchase orders but not real fixes.
Say No To Bad Customer Promises
- Don't overpromise to customers and avoid selling features they don't need.
- If a solution is unnecessary or won't work, tell the customer no to build long-term trust.