---
title: How to Streamline Network Automation Using Cisco Catalyst Center
description: Streamline network automation with Cisco Catalyst Center templates using Jinja2 and CSV for scalable, consistent, and secure device configuration.
---

[![looking-point_LogoWhite _ Presidio-1](https://www.lookingpoint.com/hubfs/looking-point_LogoWhite%20_%20Presidio-1.svg) ![LOOKINGPOINT](https://www.lookingpoint.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Theme%20Oct%202019/images/logo@mobile.png?width=444&height=86&name=logo@mobile.png) ](https://www-lookingpoint-com.sandbox.hs-sites.com/-temporary-slug-c10ae2f5-f23e-43f2-8214-f73884fb09ae)

- [Solutions](https://www.lookingpoint.com) 
    - [Collaboration](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-solutions-collaboration)
    - [Security ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-solutions-security)
    - [Networking ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-solutions-networking)
    - [Data Center ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/data-center)
    - [Cloud](https://www.lookingpoint.com/cloud)
    - [Managed Services](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-support-services)
    - [Lifecycle Management](https://www.lookingpoint.com/lifecycle-management-acela)
- [Services](https://www.lookingpoint.com/en/solutions-services) 
    - [Assess and Design ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/assess-and-design-it-solutions)
    - [Deployment](https://www.lookingpoint.com/deployment-it-services-solutions)
    - [Support](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-support-services)
    - [Wireless Surveys Assessments](https://www.lookingpoint.com/en-us/wireless-surveys-assessments)
    - [Project Management ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/project-management)
    - [Integration Center](https://www.lookingpoint.com/integration-services)
    - [Lifecycle Support](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-lifecycle-support)
    - [Locations Serviced](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-consulting-san-francisco-bay-area)
    - [Customer Success](https://www.lookingpoint.com/services-customer-success)
- [Partners](https://www.lookingpoint.com/partner)
- [Blog](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog)

- [Solutions](https://www.lookingpoint.com) 
    - [Collaboration](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-solutions-collaboration)
    - [Security ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-solutions-security)
    - [Networking ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-solutions-networking)
    - [Data Center ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/data-center)
    - [Cloud](https://www.lookingpoint.com/cloud)
    - [Managed Services](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-support-services)
- [Services](https://www.lookingpoint.com/en/solutions-services) 
    - [Assess and Design](https://www.lookingpoint.com/assess-and-design-it-solutions)
    - [Deployment](https://www.lookingpoint.com/deployment-it-services-solutions)
    - [Support](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-support-services)
    - [Wireless Survey Assessment](https://www.lookingpoint.com/en-us/wireless-surveys-assessments)
    - [Project Management ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/project-management)
    - [Lifecycle Management](https://www.lookingpoint.com/lifecycle-management-acela)
    - [Integration Center](https://www.lookingpoint.com/integration-services)
    - [Locations Serviced](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-consulting-san-francisco-bay-area)
    - [Customer Success](https://www.lookingpoint.com/services-customer-success)
- [Partners](https://www.lookingpoint.com/partner)
- [Blog](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog)
- [+1 925-566-3480](tel:+1%20925-566-3480)
- [DO NOT SHARE OR SELL MY PERSONAL INFORMATION](https://na1.hs-data-privacy.com/request/TrvvEe3VpnlESmYolHn3xw)

- [![phone@2x](https://www.lookingpoint.com/hubfs/Theme%20Oct%202019/fonts/phone@2x.png) +1 925-566-3480 ](tel:+19255663480)
- [![user@2x](https://www.lookingpoint.com/hubfs/Theme%20Oct%202019/fonts/user@2x.png) Acela Portal ](https://my.lookingpoint.com/)
- [Free Consultation](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/how-to-streamline-network-automation-using-cisco-catalyst-center#get-free-popup)

 Let’s Connect

[Home](https://www.lookingpoint.com/) [Blog](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog) How to Streamline Network Automation Using Cisco Catalyst Center

# Blog

 Jun  4

How to Streamline Network Automation Using Cisco Catalyst Center

 Posted by [Craig Grant](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/author/craig-grant)

[**0](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/how-to-streamline-network-automation-using-cisco-catalyst-center#comments-listing)

** Share

- [**](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/how-to-streamline-network-automation-using-cisco-catalyst-center&title=How%20to%20Streamline%20Network%20Automation%20Using%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center&picture=&description=Streamline%20network%20automation%20with%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center%20templates%20using%20Jinja2%20and%20CSV%20for%20scalable,%20consistent,%20and%20secure%20device%20configuration.)
- [**](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?source=https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/how-to-streamline-network-automation-using-cisco-catalyst-center&text=How%20to%20Streamline%20Network%20Automation%20Using%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center)
- [**](https://plus.google.com/share?url=https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/how-to-streamline-network-automation-using-cisco-catalyst-center)
- [**](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/how-to-streamline-network-automation-using-cisco-catalyst-center&title=How%20to%20Streamline%20Network%20Automation%20Using%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center&summary=Streamline%20network%20automation%20with%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center%20templates%20using%20Jinja2%20and%20CSV%20for%20scalable,%20consistent,%20and%20secure%20device%20configuration.)
- [**](mailto:?subject=How%20to%20Streamline%20Network%20Automation%20Using%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center&body=How%20to%20Streamline%20Network%20Automation%20Using%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center%20https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/how-to-streamline-network-automation-using-cisco-catalyst-center)

[IT services](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/it-services) [IT consulting](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/it-consulting) [it security](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/it-security) [IT Solutions](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/it-solutions) [Network Configuration](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/network-configuration) [Cisco DNA Center](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/cisco-dna-center) [Cisco Catalyst Center](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/cisco-catalyst-center) [Network Automation](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/network-automation) [Cisco Templates](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/cisco-templates) [Composite Templates](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/composite-templates) [IOS-XE Automation](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/ios-xe-automation) [Cisco IOS Templates](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/cisco-ios-templates) [CSV Import Cisco](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/csv-import-cisco) [Cisco Catalyst Automation](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/cisco-catalyst-automation) [Template-Based Automation](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/template-based-automation) [Cisco Network Templates](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/cisco-network-templates) [Jinja2 Templates](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/jinja2-templates) [Bulk Configuration](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/bulk-configuration) [Enterprise Network Management](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/enterprise-network-management) [SNMP Configuration Cisco](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/snmp-configuration-cisco) [NTP Configuration Cisco](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/ntp-configuration-cisco) [ACL Automation Cisco](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/acl-automation-cisco) [Network Scripting](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/network-scripting) [Cisco Infrastructure Automation](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/cisco-infrastructure-automation)

Efficient network management is crucial for scaling and securing modern networks. Cisco Catalyst Center (formerly DNA Center) offers powerful tools for automating the deployment of device configurations using templates, composite templates, and Jinja2 scripting. In this guide, we will walk through creating and deploying templates, including interface configurations, NTP, SNMP, ACLs, and more, for Cisco IOS-XE and IOS devices. We'll also cover using CSV imports for bulk deployments, ensuring a best-practice approach.

# **Why Use Templates in Cisco Catalyst Center?**

 

Templates in Catalyst Center offer a standardized way to configure devices, making it easier to maintain consistency and reduce human error. Key benefits include:

- **Scalability**: Apply configurations to hundreds of devices simultaneously.
- **Flexibility**: Use Jinja2 templates to dynamically generate configurations based on device-specific variables.
- **Compliance**: Ensure consistent application of security and operational policies.
- **Automation**: Reduce manual configurations and operational overhead.

**Getting Started with Templates**

1. ** Creating a Basic Jinja2 Template**

Start by creating a basic template for common network settings like interface configurations, NTP servers, and SNMP settings. Here's a simple Jinja2 example for configuring an Ethernet interface:

interface

description

 switchport mode access

 switchport access vlan

 spanning-tree portfast

 no shutdown

Save this as **Basic_Interface_Template** in Catalyst Center.

1. ** Adding Variables for Flexibility**

To make the template reusable, add variables for key parameters. This allows you to dynamically configure interfaces based on device-specific data:

interface

 description

 ip address

 no shutdown

1. ** Using CSV for Bulk Deployments**

Create a CSV file to import device-specific values for these variables. For example:

![](https://www.lookingpoint.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-May-22-2025-09-14-02-8998-PM.png?width=857&height=187&name=image-png-May-22-2025-09-14-02-8998-PM.png)

This file can be imported into the Catalyst Center template to quickly deploy configurations across multiple devices.

## **Building Composite Templates**

 

Composite templates allow you to group multiple smaller templates into a single, reusable package. This is ideal for deploying complete device configurations, including:

- Interface settings
- NTP and SNMP configurations
- Access Control Lists (ACLs)
- Logging and monitoring settings

 

## **CSV Imports for Composite Templates**

 

For composite templates, CSV imports can greatly simplify bulk deployments. To use CSV imports effectively:

- **Prepare a CSV file** with headers matching the variable names in each sub-template.
- **Include the Template Path**: Ensure that your CSV file includes a template_path column to specify the exact location of each sub-template in Catalyst Center's directory structure.

 

Sample CSV for a composite template:** **

![](https://www.lookingpoint.com/hs-fs/hubfs/image-png-May-22-2025-09-14-31-1375-PM.png?width=975&height=161&name=image-png-May-22-2025-09-14-31-1375-PM.png)

**Tip: **Depending on the Catalyst Center version, csv field requirements may differ. To create the correct csv, deploy the template to the point where the variables need to be provided (either through the GUI or csv import). Export the configuration parameters first which will provide a csv download with the required information needed. That csv can now be use as a base.

** **

## **High-Level Deployment Flow**

 

1. **Template Creation**: 
     -    Create individual Jinja2 templates for interfaces, NTP, SNMP, ACLs, and other settings.
     -    Use variables to make these templates reusable across different devices.
2. **CSV Preparation**: 
     -    Prepare a CSV file for bulk imports, matching variable names to template parameters.
     -    Include the template_path column to specify the sub-template location.
3. **Composite Template Assembly**: 
     -    Group related templates into a composite template for streamlined deployments.
4. **Testing and Validation**: 
     -    Use the built-in simulator to validate templates before deployment.
5. **Deployment**: 
     -    Deploy the composite template, using the CSV variable set to customize each device's configuration.
6. **Monitoring and Troubleshooting**: 
     -    Use Catalyst Center's monitoring tools to verify successful deployments and address     any issues.

 

## **Best Practices for Template Design**

 

- **Modular Design**: Break large templates into smaller, reusable components.
- **Version Control**: Maintain version history for templates to track changes.
- **Testing**: Use Catalyst Center's built-in simulator to validate templates before deployment.
- **Security**: Always include secure SNMP and ACL configurations to protect your network.

 

## **Final Thoughts**

Using templates and composite templates in Catalyst Center can significantly reduce the time and effort required for network configuration. By leveraging Jinja2, CSV imports, and best practices, you can create scalable, secure, and automated network configurations that reduce operational complexity and improve consistency.

Happy Automating!

 

LookingPoint offers multiple IT services if you’re interested. Want more information, give us a call! Please reach out to us at [sales@lookingpoint.com](mailto:sales@lookingpoint.com) and we’ll be happy to help!

[![Contact Us](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2215854/7814218f-8d49-4d01-9a8c-095c00c0b08d.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2215854/7814218f-8d49-4d01-9a8c-095c00c0b08d)

 Written By:

Craig Grant, Senior Consulting Engineer

 SHARE:

- [**](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/how-to-streamline-network-automation-using-cisco-catalyst-center&title=How%20to%20Streamline%20Network%20Automation%20Using%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center&picture=&description=Streamline%20network%20automation%20with%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center%20templates%20using%20Jinja2%20and%20CSV%20for%20scalable,%20consistent,%20and%20secure%20device%20configuration.)
- [**](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?source=https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/how-to-streamline-network-automation-using-cisco-catalyst-center&text=How%20to%20Streamline%20Network%20Automation%20Using%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center)
- [**](https://plus.google.com/share?url=https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/how-to-streamline-network-automation-using-cisco-catalyst-center)
- [**](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/how-to-streamline-network-automation-using-cisco-catalyst-center&title=How%20to%20Streamline%20Network%20Automation%20Using%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center&summary=Streamline%20network%20automation%20with%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center%20templates%20using%20Jinja2%20and%20CSV%20for%20scalable,%20consistent,%20and%20secure%20device%20configuration.)
- [**](mailto:?subject=How%20to%20Streamline%20Network%20Automation%20Using%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center&body=How%20to%20Streamline%20Network%20Automation%20Using%20Cisco%20Catalyst%20Center%20https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/how-to-streamline-network-automation-using-cisco-catalyst-center)

### Topics

- [cisco](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/cisco)
- [security](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/security)
- [cybersecurity](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/cybersecurity)
- [Cisco ISE](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/cisco-ise)
- [collaboration](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/collaboration)
- [ISE](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/ise)
- [webex](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/webex)
- [IT Solutions](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/it-solutions)
- [cisco webex](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/cisco-webex)
- [SD-WAN](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog/topic/sd-wan)

### Latest Tweets **

### subscribe to our blog

## Get New Unique Posts

![looking-point_LogoWhite _ Presidio-1](https://www.lookingpoint.com/hubfs/looking-point_LogoWhite%20_%20Presidio-1.svg)

 391 Taylor Blvd. Suite 120 Pleasant Hill, California 94523

[Call Us +1 925-566-3480](tel:+19255663480)

[sales@lookingpoint.com](mailto:sales@lookingpoint.com)

- [**](https://www.facebook.com/lookingpoint?fref=ts)
- [**](https://twitter.com/lookingpoint)
- [**](https://www.linkedin.com/company/lookingpoint)
- [**](https://www.instagram.com/lookingpoint/)

 SOLUTIONS

- [Collaboration](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-solutions-collaboration)
- [ Security](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-solutions-security)
- [Networking ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-solutions-networking)
- [Cloud](https://www.lookingpoint.com/cloud)
- [Data Center ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/data-center)
- [Project Management ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/project-management)
- [Lifecycle Management](https://www.lookingpoint.com/lifecycle-management-acela)
- [Wireless Surveys Assessments](https://www.lookingpoint.com/en-us/wireless-surveys-assessments)

 MANAGED SERVICES

- [Assess and Design](https://www.lookingpoint.com/assess-and-design-it-solutions)
- [Deployment](https://www.lookingpoint.com/deployment-it-services-solutions)
- [Support](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-support-services)
- [Integration Center](https://www.lookingpoint.com/integration-services)
- [Lifecycle Support](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-lifecycle-support)
- [Locations Serviced](https://www.lookingpoint.com/it-consulting-san-francisco-bay-area)
- [Customer Success](https://www.lookingpoint.com/services-customer-success)

 COMPANY

- [Contact Us](https://www.lookingpoint.com/contact-us)
- [Career](https://www.lookingpoint.com/career)
- [About Us](https://www.lookingpoint.com/about-us)
- [ FAQ](https://www.lookingpoint.com/faq)
- [ Partners](https://www.lookingpoint.com/partner)
- [Blog](https://www.lookingpoint.com/blog)
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.lookingpoint.com/privacy-policy)
- [DO NOT SELL OR SHARE MY PERSONAL INFORMATION](https://na1.hs-data-privacy.com/request/TrvvEe3VpnlESmYolHn3xw)

 GET IN TOUCH

 Join our mailing list to stay up to date and get notices about our new releases!

 Looking Point Inc. 2026

 Cookie Settings