Automated Upgrades with BackBox

BackBox offers a network automation platform which supports multi-vendor environments and aims to simplify OS upgrades across various network devices. With built-in automations for 47 different platforms, BackBox can handle complex updates, even for devices not initially included, thanks to a supportive professional services team that can tailor solutions for customers. The platform does not rely on extensive Python knowledge and can be operated using simple Linux and CLI commands. This accessibility ensures that network administrators can create and schedule upgrade tasks without needing deep programmability skills.

A major benefit highlighted in the presentation is the ability to schedule upgrades to minimize disruptions during off-peak hours, such as late at night. Additionally, BackBox allows for notifications and alerts, ensuring administrators can sleep through most upgrade processes unless an issue arises requiring their attention. The platform is flexible, capable of handling intricate upgrade schedules, high-availability (HA) clusters, and performing pre and post-upgrade checks to ensure system integrity. These features streamline maintenance tasks and reduce the need for manual interventions, contributing to a more efficient and reliable network management process.

Further integration with ticketing systems like ServiceNow and monitoring solutions allows for seamless change management. This ensures that any scheduled changes are tracked, which helps in maintaining a clear communication channel for network operations centers (NOCs). The automation capabilities extend to executing complex multi-step upgrades, checking resource availability, and incorporating risk intelligence data to address security vulnerabilities, making BackBox a comprehensive tool for network administrators aiming to maintain system up-to-date while ensuring security and operational efficiency.