Python Abstraction in Network Automation

In this video, we will learn about Python abstraction in network automation.

Below is the outline I used in the video:

# Python Abstraction in Network Automation

# What is Abstraction?
# Abstraction means defining a common method in a base class,
# but letting child classes handle the actual details.

# It hides the complexity and shows only what matters.

# In Python, we use the 'abc' module to create abstract base classes.

# Why Use Abstraction in Network Automation?
# - Ensures all device classes follow the same structure
# - Requires child classes to implement key methods
# - Makes your code more organized and easier to scale
# - Useful for frameworks and multi-vendor support

# In this example, we’ll use abstraction to make sure
# all devices implement a method to run a show command.

# Step 1: Import Required Modules
from abc import ABC, abstractmethod
from netmiko import ConnectHandler
from datetime import datetime

# Step 2: Define an Abstract Base Class
class NetworkDevice(ABC):
def __init__(self, hostname, device_type, username, password):

# This method must be implemented by all child classes
@abstractmethod
def run_show_command(self):
pass

# Step 3: Implement Cisco Device Class
class CiscoDevice(NetworkDevice):
def __init__(self, hostname, username="rviews", password=""):
# Use cisco_ios_telnet as the device type
super().__init__(hostname, device_type="cisco_ios_telnet", username=username, password=password)

# Implementation of the abstract method
def run_show_command(self):
connection = ConnectHandler(
)

# Save output with timestamp

with open(filename, "w") as file:
print(f"Cisco: 'show ip bgp summary' saved in {filename}")

# Step 4: Implement Juniper Device Class
class JuniperDevice(NetworkDevice):
def __init__(self, hostname, username="rviews", password="rviews"):
# Use juniper_junos_telnet as the device type
super().__init__(hostname, device_type="juniper_junos_telnet", username=username, password=password)

# Implementation of the abstract method
def run_show_command(self):
connection = ConnectHandler(
)

# Save output with timestamp

with open(filename, "w") as file:
print(f"Juniper: 'show bgp summary' saved in {filename}")

# Step 5: Instantiate Device Objects

# Step 6: Use Abstraction with Polymorphism
# Even though we call the same method, the behavior differs depending on the class.
devices = [cisco, juniper]

for device in devices:

# Note:
# If you try to instantiate NetworkDevice directly:
# base = NetworkDevice("1.1.1.1", "cisco_ios", "user", "pass")
# It will raise a TypeError because it's abstract and cannot be instantiated.

#python #pythontutorial #pythonprogramming