Know your gear
Cisco Modeling Labs offers a simulation platform with a central store of defined and licensed Cisco IOS images that all your engineers can use. The user interface is based on the familiar Cisco DNA Center Canvas, and built-in productivity tools enable fast build-up and tear-down. Cisco Modeling Labs also includes a comprehensive and easy-to-use API to help you embark upon your automation journey. Instead of guessing how the rollout of new configurations will affect your network, use the API to push those configurations to your simulation in an automated fashion. Then use the same configurations on your production network once you've fully tested those scenarios.