The essence of mapping variables is to define the mapping relationships of different parser variables among different vendors and different data sources. By indexing mapped variables, the system can identify and parse the target parser variables of different device types, which enables network automation with more expansion possibilities on vendor models and data sources (CLI/SNMP/API).

Example: Mapped variables between two vendors through different data sources.

The system provides a set of built-in mapping resources, and also allows you to create/maintain mappings between parser variables of different vendor models. As a result, existing variable mappings organize a data dictionary at tenant-level. When one variable for a specific vendor or source is supported in Qapp execution or other automation features, other variables for the rest of vendors or sources can also be supported.

Briefly, Variable Mapping achieves the following three goals:

▪Expanding Multi-Vendor Support is Easier and Infinite
Add new mappings of parser variables to fulfill the required vendors and models. The mappings will be automatically applied in a “single pane of glass” view.

▪Integrates Rich Data Sources for Single Pane of Glass
Add multiple access methods via CLI/SNMP/API parsers for a vendor model. By using the prioritized access methods, the data sources for a live network can be integrated and enriched.

▪Writing a Qapp is Easier
Qapp authors write every Qapp for a single vendor, and no need to worry about how to cover more device types, which is realized through Variable Mapping.

 

Using Mapped Variables

Mapped variables are automatically applied in many automation functions, such as on-demand/scheduled Qapp/Gapp, Instant Qapp, and applying Data Views. Take on-demand run Qapp for example to describe the automation flow:

 

▪Adding Variable Mappings for Multi-Vendor
For example, a Qapp is specifically written for Cisco IOS devices, referencing a CLI parser dedicated to Cisco IOS devices. To automate Juniper devices with this Qapp, end users can manually add the required mappings between variables.

▪Adding Variable Mappings for Multi-Source
For example, to enrich live data sources for Cisco IOS devices, end users add available CLI/SNMP/API parsers, and add variables mappings among them.