Cisco Active Network Abstraction Administrator’s Guide, 3.5

A rule can perform many types of actions, such as:

Add or remove an object from the working memory

Modify an object

Execute a method on one of the objects

The Agenda is where Drools stores the list of rules to be fired.

D.2 Drools and ANA Integration

The Drools rule engine enables the user to extend the ANA alarm correlation mechanism with user-defined rules and business logic.

The Drools rule engine is fully integrated within the Cisco ANA Gateway and does not require any synchronization or maintenance. It can access all ANA information and functions:

Use up-to-date network information (topology, hierarchy, inventory) as part of its rule processing

Create and manipulate alarms, and send commands to NEs

Define operator-logic rules, such as:

If the alarm was not attended to within 2 hours then…

If there are more than 5 open alarms on this device then…

If today is Tuesday then…

The rules are written for Drools in xml format files, and can be modified and reloaded in runtime. There is neither a need to compile the rules, nor to restart any ANA component.

ANA maintains two Drools processing instances (Contexts), with two respective rule files:

Pre-correlationprocessing context

Post-correlationprocessing context

The Rule files are located under ~sheer/Main/data in the ANA Gateway server.

D.3 Drools Definitions in ANA

The Drools mechanism runs in two processing contexts:

Pre-correlation context – defined in the pre.drl rule file

Post-correlation context – defined in the post.drl rule file.

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Cisco Systems 3.5 manual Drools and ANA Integration, Drools Definitions in ANA

3.5 specifications

Cisco Systems 3.5 is an advanced version of Cisco's renowned networking and security solutions. This iteration showcases significant enhancements in performance, scalability, and security, making it a preferred choice for enterprises aiming to optimize their network operations and bolster their cybersecurity posture.

One of the main features of Cisco Systems 3.5 is its enhanced network automation capabilities. Automation streamlines network management, allowing organizations to apply consistent policies across their infrastructure while minimizing human error. This version employs advanced algorithms and machine learning to predict and rectify network issues proactively. With automation tools, network administrators can configure, monitor, and troubleshoot their networks with unprecedented efficiency.

Another notable characteristic of Cisco Systems 3.5 is its integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into networking processes. The incorporation of AI enhances decision-making by analyzing vast amounts of network data, identifying patterns, and offering insights that help ensure optimal performance. This predictive analytics capability allows organizations to predict potential disruptions before they impact operations.

Security is a major focus in Cisco Systems 3.5. The platform introduces advanced threat detection and response systems that utilize deep learning to identify and mitigate emerging threats in real-time. Enhanced encryption protocols ensure that data transmitted over the network remains secure, protecting sensitive information from cyber threats. The integrated security features ensure compliance with various regulatory standards, a crucial requirement for businesses across multiple sectors.

The platforms' support for Software-Defined Networking (SDN) allows for dynamic resource allocation and traffic management. This flexibility enables organizations to adjust their network resources quickly in response to changing demands, leading to improved efficiency and reduced operational costs. Cisco Systems 3.5 also supports multicloud environments, facilitating seamless integration with cloud services such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure.

Moreover, Cisco Systems 3.5 offers robust telemetry features, providing detailed real-time insights into network performance and health. This data-driven approach allows organizations to make informed decisions regarding capacity planning and resource optimization.

In summary, Cisco Systems 3.5 combines cutting-edge technologies such as AI, machine learning, and SDN to deliver a comprehensive networking solution. With its focus on automation, enhanced security, and multicloud support, this version is well-suited for modern enterprises looking to enhance their network infrastructure and security measures. As organizations continue to evolve in a digital-centric world, Cisco Systems 3.5 stands out as a critical tool to achieve connectivity and security goals effectively.