Cisco APIC-EM Alternatives for Small Labs

automationciscocisco-catalystlabswitch

Are there any alternatives to meet a small auto provisioning server for a Cisco switch (Cat3850)? I'm working to setting up a "plug and play" capable Cisco switch (Cat3850) in small isolated lab. I unfortunate don't have access to the DevNet sandbox. I'm constrained for compute resources in this lab and the VM host requirements for the free APIC-EM download are a bit stiff.

Any suggestions? Thanks in advance.

Best Answer

You have an ISR and a DHCP server, but you need a TFTP server, then you can just use SmartInstall for Zero Touch Switch Deployment:

Abstract

SmartInstall provides a suite of capabilities that help deploy new Cisco® Catalyst® switches and manage them effectively at very low operating costs. SmartInstall has true zero-touch switch installation to lower operational costs. SmartInstall helps with initial switch deployment, switch configuration management, and switch replacement. This document will explain the practical benefits of deploying SmartInstall, configurable options for deployment based on different network scenarios, best practices, and customization options.

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