Welcome to the Data Formats and Data Models course — an essential part of your CCNA Automation (formerly DevNet) learning path. This course explains how data is structured, formatted, and exchanged in modern network automation workflows. You’ll explore XML, JSON, and YAML — the three most common formats used in APIs, configurations, and automation scripts.
Each topic is explained through clear examples, step-by-step Python labs, and simple comparisons that show when and why to use each format. By the end, you’ll understand how to read, write, and parse structured data like a network automation pro.
About
The Data Formats and Data Models course helps you master the foundation of how network automation systems exchange and represent information. You’ll start by learning why structured text formats are needed, then explore XML, JSON, and YAML — their syntax, data structures, and use cases in real automation scenarios.
You’ll also learn how to use Python to work with these formats directly. Through guided examples, you’ll parse XML trees, load and manipulate JSON data, and read YAML configuration files. This is a critical skill for anyone using APIs, configuration management tools, or automation frameworks like Ansible or NETCONF/RESTCONF.
What you'll learn
- Understand structured data formats: Learn why XML, JSON, and YAML exist and how they make data exchange between systems easier.
- Explore syntax and structure: Study how each format organizes data, represents hierarchies, and uses tags, braces, and indentation.
- Parse data with Python: Learn to load, read, and extract values from XML, JSON, and YAML files using Python libraries.
- Work with real automation data: Practice with sample API responses, network configuration files, and YAML inventory examples.
Skills you'll gain
Who is this for?
Designed for network engineers and automation beginners preparing for Cisco DevNet or CCNA Automation. No prior coding experience is required, just a basic understanding of networks and curiosity to learn automation.
Course Info
- Learning Path: CCNA Automation
- Exam: CCNA Automation (formerly DevNet Associate)
- Prerequisites: Basic Python and networking knowledge
- Number of lessons: 17
- Number of labs: 3 Python parsing labs
- Created: 15 Oct 2025
- Updated: 17 Oct 2025
Course Structure
The course is organized into two main sections that take you from basic data understanding to real-world Python parsing:
- Section 1: Data Formats — Learn about text-based data formats and why they are used for configuration and automation. You’ll explore XML, JSON, and YAML syntax, structure, and their advantages and drawbacks.
- Section 2: Parsing XML, JSON, and YAML with Python — Apply what you’ve learned by writing Python scripts to read, interpret, and extract data from these file types. This section bridges the gap between theory and automation practice.
Each section contains lessons, examples, and short quizzes to test your understanding. You’ll also work with sample data models and network configuration files similar to those used in REST APIs and automation tools like Ansible and NETCONF.
By completing this course, you’ll be ready to handle data in automation projects and integrate APIs, controllers, or templates into your network workflows.
Outcomes
After completing this course, you’ll be able to identify, read, and create XML, JSON, and YAML documents confidently. You’ll know which format to use in different scenarios and how to automate data processing using Python.
You’ll also gain the skills needed to work with real API responses, device configuration models, and automation tools — a critical step toward becoming a network automation engineer.
