Cisco WAN Automation Engine (WAE) is a comprehensive network design and planning tool designed to visualize and optimize networks. It provides a powerful platform for network engineers and administrators to model, simulate, and analyze various aspects of their network infrastructure.

Network Abstraction

• WAE creates a detailed network abstraction that encompasses all relevant information, including:Topology
• Configuration
• Traffic details This abstraction serves as the foundation for various analysis and optimization tasks.

Data Collection

• The WAE collector utilizes multiple protocols and technologies to gather network data and construct abstracted network models, also known as Plan files. These data collection methods include:SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol)
• BGP-LS (Border Gateway Protocol - Link State)
• NetFlow
• SR-PCE (Segment Routing - Path Computation Element)
• OSPF LSD (Open Shortest Path First - Link State Database)

WAE Design

• WAE Design is a component of the WAE suite that allows users to:Retrieve network models from the WAE server
• View network topology
• Filter and drill down into specific network elements
• Simulate "what if" scenarios
• Evaluate potential risks
• Find optimal paths and IGP (Interior Gateway Protocol) metrics
• Suggest capacity changes

WAE Live

• WAE Live is a web-based application within the WAE ecosystem that offers:Visibility into network infrastructure
• Real-time state monitoring
• Traffic utilization analysis
• Access to current and historical network data

Key Features

• Network Modeling: Create accurate representations of network topologies and configurations
• Simulation: Run various scenarios to predict network behavior under different conditions
• Failure Analysis: Assess the impact of potential network failures
• Design Changes: Evaluate the effects of proposed network modifications
• Traffic Growth Impact: Analyze how increased traffic might affect network performance
• Risk Evaluation: Identify and assess potential risks in the network infrastructure
• Path Optimization: Determine the most efficient routes for data transmission
• Capacity Planning: Suggest improvements in network capacity based on current and projected needs
• Historical Data Analysis: Access and analyze past network performance data
• Real-time Monitoring: Keep track of current network state and utilization

By leveraging these features, network professionals can make informed decisions about network design, optimization, and maintenance, ultimately leading to improved network performance and reliability.