As modern networks grow more complex, managing them manually becomes time-consuming and error-prone. That’s where network automation comes in. By automating routine network tasks, businesses can streamline operations, boost efficiency, and improve security - all while reducing the burden on IT teams.
In this article, we’ll explore what network automation is, why it matters, and how the right tools can transform the way your network is managed.
What is Network Automation?
Network automation is the use of software and scripts to automatically manage, configure, monitor, and test network devices and services. Instead of manually handling tasks like setting up routers, updating firewalls, or troubleshooting issues, IT teams can define rules and workflows that automation tools follow. This approach not only saves time but also improves accuracy, scalability, and overall network reliability.
Why is Network Automation Essential?
In today’s digital landscape, network automation solutions play a vital role in strengthening cybersecurity. Automated systems can quickly detect vulnerabilities, apply firewall updates, and manage user access across multiple devices. This minimizes the risk of security breaches, accelerates response times, and reduces the chance of human error. By offloading routine tasks to automation, IT teams can focus on strategic planning and proactive problem-solving.
Which Network Operations Can Be Automated?
A wide range of network tasks can benefit from automation, delivering greater consistency and freeing up valuable IT resources. Common examples include:
Device configuration: Apply consistent settings across routers, switches, and firewalls.
Security patching: Keep software and firmware up to date to close known vulnerabilities.
Traffic monitoring: Track network activity to detect anomalies or performance issues.
Fault detection: Identify and address issues before they lead to downtime.
Using network automation tools for these tasks boosts network stability and enables faster, more consistent responses to potential issues.
How Does Network Automation Work?
Network automation works by defining rules and policies that control how tasks should be performed across the network. These rules are then executed through automation tools that apply configurations, enforce policies, and monitor systems in real time.
Typically, IT teams use scripting or templates to standardize processes, which are deployed through centralized platforms. As a result, networks can scale more efficiently, respond faster to changes, and maintain security standards—without the need for constant manual oversight.
4 Types of Network Automation
Network automation comes in several forms, each designed to streamline specific areas of network management. By understanding these types, businesses can choose the right network automation solutions to meet their needs and improve overall efficiency.
1. Configuration Management
Configuration management involves automatically applying and maintaining consistent settings across all network devices, such as routers, switches, and firewalls.
Example: When a new router is added to the network, a configuration script ensures it follows the same security policies and network rules as existing devices.
Best Practice: Use network automation tools that support configuration templates and version control to prevent inconsistencies and simplify troubleshooting.
2. Fault Management
Fault management automation detects, diagnoses, and resolves network issues without manual intervention.
Example: If a switch goes offline, the automation system can trigger alerts, run diagnostic tests, and even restart services based on predefined policies.
Best Practice: Integrate automation with monitoring tools to ensure real-time alerts and automated responses to reduce downtime.
3. Performance Monitoring
This type of automation focuses on tracking network performance metrics such as latency, packet loss, and bandwidth usage.
Example: When traffic spikes are detected, the system can automatically adjust routing paths or prioritize critical applications to maintain performance.
Best Practice: Set thresholds and rules within your network automation platform to ensure proactive adjustments before users are affected.
4. Provisioning
Provisioning automation helps quickly set up and deploy new network devices or services.
Example: When a new employee joins the company, the system can automatically configure their access permissions, assign IP addresses, and apply necessary firewall rules.
Best Practice: Combine provisioning with access control policies to ensure new devices or users are securely and correctly added to the network.
Top Features of Advanced Network Automation Tools
Modern network automation tools are designed to do more than just save time—they help businesses manage growing IT demands with greater accuracy, security, and control. Here are some of the key features that make these tools so effective:
Automated Provisioning
Instantly configure and deploy new devices or services with pre-defined settings, eliminating the need for manual setup.
Real-Time Monitoring
Continuously observe network performance and receive alerts for unusual activity or issues, helping IT teams respond faster.
Security Management
Automatically apply security patches, enforce firewall rules, and manage user access to protect the network from threats.
Policy Enforcement
Ensure that all devices follow the organization’s network policies, including compliance with industry standards and internal guidelines.
Automated Maintenance and Updates
Set automated schedules for software updates, firmware upgrades, and system checks to keep the network running smoothly.
Centralized Management Dashboard
View and manage all network components from a single interface, improving visibility and simplifying control.
Scalability and Integration
Easily scale to accommodate growing networks and integrate with existing IT systems and tools for seamless operation.
The Impact of Network Automation on Business Productivity and Security
Automating network operations can significantly improve both day-to-day productivity and long-term security. Below are the key ways in which network automation solutions make a difference for businesses of all sizes:
Improved Operational Efficiency
Repetitive tasks like device configuration, updates, and monitoring are handled automatically, allowing IT teams to focus on higher-level projects and strategic planning.
Reduced Human Error
Manual processes often lead to misconfigurations or overlooked issues. Automation ensures consistency, reducing the chances of mistakes that can cause downtime or security risks.
Faster Response to Issues
Automated systems can detect, diagnose, and sometimes fix problems in real time—reducing downtime and minimizing the impact on business operations.
Stronger Network Security
By automatically applying updates, enforcing firewall rules, and managing access controls, network automation tools help protect networks against evolving threats.
Cost Savings Over Time
Fewer manual interventions and faster issue resolution can lead to reduced labor costs, fewer outages, and better use of IT resources.
Scalability for Growing Businesses
As your business expands, automation makes it easy to add new devices and services without overwhelming your IT team.
What to Consider Before Implementing Network Automation Solutions
Before adopting any network automation solution, it’s important to evaluate whether your organization is ready for the shift. Here are some key factors to consider to ensure a smooth and successful implementation:
Existing Infrastructure
Review your current network setup, hardware, and software. Automation tools must be compatible with your devices and systems to avoid integration issues.
Staff Readiness
Does your IT team have the skills and knowledge to implement and maintain automation tools? Training may be necessary to bridge gaps and ensure long-term success.
Defined Objectives
Set clear goals for automation—whether it’s reducing manual tasks, improving security, or scaling operations. This will help in selecting the right network automation tools and measuring their impact.
Potential Challenges
Be aware of possible roadblocks, such as initial setup complexity, resistance to change, or unforeseen errors during automation testing. Planning for these challenges will minimize disruption.
Cost vs. Benefit Analysis
Consider the total cost of ownership, including licenses, training, and ongoing support, versus the expected benefits like time savings, reduced errors, and improved network performance.
Scalability and Flexibility
Choose network automation solutions that can grow with your business and adapt to changing needs - whether that’s expanding to new locations or supporting remote work.
Taking time to assess these factors will help ensure that your investment in network automation delivers real value and long-term improvements.
Enhance Network Automation and Policy Enforcement with Splashtop AEM
Splashtop’s Autonomous Endpoint Management (AEM) add-on empowers IT teams to automate essential network and endpoint tasks - ensuring systems stay secure, compliant, and up to date.
By combining real-time patch management, a powerful policy framework, and proactive alerts with automated remediation, AEM gives IT professionals the tools to respond quickly to issues, enforce network-wide policies, and streamline day-to-day operations.
Key features
Automated OS and 3rd-Party Patch Management
Automatically deploy updates to protect against vulnerabilities and ensure devices are always running the latest software.
Custom Policy Enforcement
Create and apply endpoint policies to maintain security standards and regulatory compliance (e.g.,
Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts
Gain instant visibility into endpoint health and receive automated alerts and responses to potential threats or issues.
1-to-Many Actions and Background Commands
Execute tasks like remote commands or software installations across multiple devices at once - without interrupting users.
Inventory and Compliance Reporting
Generate detailed reports on system hardware, software, and patch status to support audits and strategic planning.
Try Splashtop for Free
With AEM, Splashtop goes beyond traditional remote support - offering a scalable network automation solution that simplifies endpoint management, automates patching, and enhances policy enforcement across all connected devices.
You can explore the full capabilities of Splashtop’s Autonomous Endpoint Management add-on by starting a free trial of Splashtop Enterprise or Splashtop Remote Support. It’s an easy, no-risk way to see how automation can improve your IT operations and security posture—without increasing your manual workload.
