Why should Network Engineers learn programming languages?

Programming helps Network Engineers automate tasks, manage infrastructure as code, and troubleshoot faster. It enhances efficiency and is vital for working with modern SDN and cloud platforms.

Which programming language is best for network automation?

Python is widely used for network automation due to its simplicity and powerful libraries like Netmiko and NAPALM. It’s ideal for scripting, device configuration, and API integration.

Should Network Engineers learn Bash scripting?

Yes. Bash is essential for automating tasks on Unix/Linux systems, which are common in network environments. It helps with backups, log analysis, and batch processing.

Is knowledge of JSON and YAML important for Network Engineers?

Absolutely. JSON and YAML are often used for configuration files and APIs. Understanding them is key when working with tools like Ansible, REST APIs, and cloud networking.

What are the top certifications for Network Engineers?

Cisco certifications like CCNA and CCNP are foundational. Others include CompTIA Network+, Juniper JNCIA, and cloud-specific ones like AWS Certified Advanced Networking.

What are the top tools for remote Network Engineers?

Remote engineers rely on secure VPNs, cloud-based monitoring (like PRTG or SolarWinds), SSH clients, and automation platforms such as Ansible or Terraform for remote infrastructure management.

What Programming Languages Should a Network Engineer Know?

In today’s fast-evolving IT landscape, Network Engineers are expected to go beyond traditional hardware and protocol management. With the rise of software-defined networking (SDN), cloud infrastructure, and network automation, programming skills have become essential. Knowing the right programming languages helps Network Engineers automate configurations, manage infrastructure as code, and troubleshoot systems more efficiently. Here are the most important programming languages every modern Network Engineer should consider learning.

1. Python

Why it’s essential: Python is the go-to language for network automation, scripting, and tool integration. Its simplicity and wide library support make it ideal for Network Engineers.

Automate configuration changes across routers and switches
Use libraries like Netmiko, NAPALM, and Paramiko
Parse logs and generate custom network reports

Python is widely used in Cisco, Juniper, and cloud networking environments.

2. Bash / Shell Scripting

Why it’s useful: Bash and shell scripting are critical for automating tasks on Linux-based systems, which are common in network infrastructure.

Create scripts for monitoring, backups, and file transfers
Manage cron jobs and log rotation
Automate repetitive command-line tasks

Shell scripting is especially useful for working directly on network appliances and servers.

3. YAML & JSON

Why it’s important: While not programming languages in the traditional sense, YAML and JSON are essential for working with configuration files and APIs.

Define infrastructure-as-code templates (Ansible, NetBox)
Interact with REST APIs for network device provisioning
Configure tools like Kubernetes, Terraform, or cloud services

Understanding these formats is crucial for automation and system interoperability.

4. JavaScript (for Network Dashboards & APIs)

Why it’s optional but powerful: JavaScript is often used in frontend tools and for interacting with network APIs or visualization dashboards.

Customize or develop internal web dashboards for monitoring
Interact with network management systems via web-based APIs
Enable real-time visualization of network data

JavaScript is valuable for Network Engineers working closely with UI or DevOps teams.

5. Go (Golang)

Why it’s emerging: Go is gaining popularity in cloud-native environments, particularly for building scalable tools and microservices.

Build custom network automation tools and agents
Contribute to open-source networking projects (e.g., Kubernetes, Cilium)
Use in SDN, container networking, and telemetry systems

Go is becoming the language of choice for performance-driven, scalable network services.

6. Ansible (Automation with Playbooks)

Why it’s specialized: Ansible uses YAML syntax to define network automation tasks, making it ideal for configuration management.

Automate network provisioning and compliance
Manage multi-vendor environments with simple playbooks
Integrate with CI/CD pipelines for infrastructure updates

While not a traditional language, knowing how to write Ansible playbooks is a huge asset in automated networking.

Final Thoughts

Modern Network Engineers are expected to blend networking expertise with programming and automation skills. Python remains the most important language to learn, while Bash, YAML, and Ansible provide immediate automation benefits. As infrastructure shifts to the cloud and becomes more programmable, these languages empower Network Engineers to stay agile, scalable, and future-ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should Network Engineers learn programming languages?: Programming helps Network Engineers automate tasks, manage infrastructure as code, and troubleshoot faster. It enhances efficiency and is vital for working with modern SDN and cloud platforms.
Which programming language is best for network automation?: Python is widely used for network automation due to its simplicity and powerful libraries like Netmiko and NAPALM. It’s ideal for scripting, device configuration, and API integration.
Should Network Engineers learn Bash scripting?: Yes. Bash is essential for automating tasks on Unix/Linux systems, which are common in network environments. It helps with backups, log analysis, and batch processing.
What are the top certifications for Network Engineers?: Cisco certifications like CCNA and CCNP are foundational. Others include CompTIA Network+, Juniper JNCIA, and cloud-specific ones like AWS Certified Advanced Networking. Learn more on our Best Certifications for Network Engineers page.
What are the top tools for remote Network Engineers?: Remote engineers rely on secure VPNs, cloud-based monitoring (like PRTG or SolarWinds), SSH clients, and automation platforms such as Ansible or Terraform for remote infrastructure management. Learn more on our Remote Work Tips for Network Engineers page.