Cisco has outlined specific prerequisites for implementing Cisco SD-Access (Software-Defined Access) to ensure a smooth deployment and effective use of its features. Here’s a summary of Cisco’s recommended prerequisites:
1. Hardware and Software Requirements
- Network Devices: Use Cisco Catalyst 9000 series switches for the network's access, distribution, and core layers. For wireless, Cisco Catalyst 9100 series access points are recommended.
- IOS XE Software: Ensure that network devices are running IOS XE 16.6.5 or later, as SD-Access features require specific versions of the operating system.
- Cisco DNA License: Obtain the appropriate Cisco DNA (Digital Network Architecture) licenses, which include SD-Access licensing. Cisco DNA Essentials or Advantage licenses are typically required for SD-Access functionality.
2. Cisco DNA Center
- Deployment: Deploy Cisco DNA Center for network management, automation, and assurance. It serves as the centralized management platform for SD-Access.
- Version: Ensure that Cisco DNA Center is running a version that supports SD-Access, typically version 1.3.3 or later.
- Hardware Requirements: Verify the hardware specifications and resource requirements for Cisco DNA Center to ensure optimal performance.
3. Network Design and Topology
- Network Assessment: Perform a thorough assessment of your current network to determine how SD-Access will be integrated.
- Topology Planning: Design your network topology to incorporate SD-Access components, including the control plane (Cisco DNA Center) and data plane (network devices).
4. Infrastructure Readiness
- Network Infrastructure: Ensure that the physical network infrastructure (cabling, power, etc.) supports the new SD-Access hardware and deployment.
- Compatibility Checks: Verify that existing devices and systems are compatible with SD-Access and Cisco DNA Center.
5. Security and Policy Management
- Policy Definition: Develop network policies for segmentation, security, and automation to leverage SD-Access features effectively.
- Security Compliance: Ensure that your SD-Access implementation aligns with organizational security policies and compliance requirements.
6. Knowledge and Training
- Staff Training: Ensure that network administrators and IT staff are trained in SD-Access concepts and Cisco DNA Center operations. Cisco offers training and certification programs specifically for these technologies.
7. Connectivity and Integration
- Interoperability: Check for interoperability with other Cisco solutions and third-party systems that might be part of your network environment.
8. Pre-Deployment Validation
- Proof of Concept: Conduct a proof of concept (PoC) or pilot deployment to validate the SD-Access design and configuration before full-scale deployment.
By addressing these prerequisites, you can help ensure a successful deployment and operation of Cisco SD-Access in your network environment
Skills acquired after SD- Access:
After completing the Cisco Software-Defined Access (SD-Access) training, you'll acquire a range of skills and knowledge that are essential for managing and optimizing modern network infrastructures. Here are some key skills and areas of expertise you can expect to gain:
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Understanding of SD-Access Architecture: You'll learn about the overall architecture of SD-Access, including how it integrates with Cisco DNA (Digital Network Architecture) to provide a more agile and automated network environment.
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Implementation of Cisco DNA: You'll gain skills in deploying and configuring Cisco DNA solutions, which include network automation, assurance, and analytics.
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Design and Deployment of SD-Access: You'll be able to design and implement SD-Access solutions, including setting up fabric networks, configuring network devices, and ensuring seamless communication between components.
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Policy-Based Networking: You'll understand how to use policy-based networking to manage and control traffic flows within the network, applying policies to users and devices based on roles and attributes.
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Automation and Orchestration: You'll gain expertise in automating network operations and orchestrating workflows to enhance efficiency and reduce manual configuration tasks.
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Network Segmentation: You'll learn how to create and manage network segments using Virtual Networks (VN) and how to implement segmentation policies to improve security and performance.
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Troubleshooting and Assurance: You'll be equipped with skills to monitor network performance, identify issues, and use Cisco DNA Assurance tools to resolve problems and ensure optimal network health.
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Integration with Existing Systems: You'll understand how to integrate SD-Access with existing network systems and infrastructure, including legacy equipment and third-party solutions.
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Security Best Practices: You'll be familiar with best practices for securing the SD-Access environment, including implementing access controls, encryption, and threat detection mechanisms.
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Collaboration and Communication: You'll develop skills in collaborating with other IT professionals, including network engineers, security experts, and operations teams, to ensure a cohesive approach to network management.
These skills will help you manage and optimize network environments more effectively, leading to improved performance, security, and scalability.
