Network Automation Security

Network Automation Security Importance

Network automation using tools like Ansible, Terraform, and scripts improves efficiency but introduces security risks. Automation credentials have broad access, automation errors impact multiple devices, and malicious automation can cause widespread damage.

Credential Management

Secure automation credentials using vaults (HashiCorp Vault, CyberArk), avoid hardcoded credentials, implement credential rotation, use service accounts with minimal privileges, and audit credential usage.

Code Security

Apply secure coding to automation scripts, conduct code reviews, version control in Git, sign automation code, validate inputs, implement error handling, and test in non-production before deployment.

Access Controls

Restrict who can run automation, implement approval workflows for production changes, separate development and production automation, use role-based access for automation platforms, and log all automation activities.

Validation and Testing

Validate automation results, implement dry-run modes, test changes in lab environments, maintain rollback procedures, monitor automation impact, and ensure automation respects security policies and compliance requirements.

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