I’ve been working on my python programming skills and using scripts to configure all of my Meraki equipment through their API and cloud platform. It’s been a lot of work building the scripts and working through some of the limitations that are inherent in Meraki’s cloud and also in the way we manage our environment. I have over 1500 stores and use 2 /28 ranges for each store and I have been trying to use a formal IP management solution that would support it. Unfortunately after looking at Solarwinds, Bluecat, and other IPAMs I didn’t find what I wanted. I ended up going with a MS SQL Database that I can call via PYODBC and get the data based on the store#. This also allows me to put in other specialized information and I can basically build out what I need then call it from within my python programs.
Obviously I would never be confused with a web designer of any sort. However what it is, is quick and easy to use. The asp page pulls up fast and things can be added and removed within a few minutes. The amount of time I was going to have to spend in a formal solution was just more time than I had. The downside of course is that if I leave someone else has to learn what I did and then take over the support of it. That will however be a problem for a different day, unless of course I find a great solution that allows me to treat everything separately and not as part of a huge network.
Breathe Underwater 