Telecom Videos

Automating Your Network with Cisco Crosswork Workflow Manager (Sponsored)

The Heavy Networking podcast episode introduces Cisco Crosswork Workflow Manager (CWM), a sponsored discussion that positions the product as an execution engine for designing, running, and automating network workflows—from VLAN provisioning to large‑scale device upgrades. Hosts Ethan Banks and Drew Conrey Murray hear from Cisco product line manager Lummenito and architect Jay Kery, who explain that CWM replaces manual SOPs and spreadsheet‑based processes with repeatable, scripted workflows. The platform offers both out‑of‑the‑box use cases—fleet OS upgrades, configuration compliance, and device migration—and a flexible authoring environment that supports graphical design, code‑first scripting, and custom adapters. A highlighted example shows a “fleet upgrade” that can refresh 200 routers in roughly four hours, a task that traditionally takes months. CWM integrates natively with Cisco NSO for device provisioning, ServiceNow for ticketing, and can invoke external tools such as Ansible or SQL databases through REST, CLI, or SSH adapters. The system can auto‑generate adapters from OpenAPI specifications, reducing integration effort to minutes. For operators, CWM promises faster change cycles, reduced human error, and a path to automation even without an existing DevOps framework. Its multi‑vendor roadmap and planned Python script support broaden its appeal, making it a strategic asset for enterprises seeking to scale network operations while maintaining compliance and visibility.