Yang

Definition

Yang is a data modeling language used to define the structure and behavior of data in network configurations and services. It enables the development of standardized data models that can be utilized across various network functions, promoting interoperability and flexibility in managing virtualized resources and applications. Yang plays a crucial role in enhancing automation and programmability in networking environments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Yang allows for hierarchical data structures, making it easier to model complex network configurations and services.
2. The language is designed to work with protocols like NETCONF for seamless configuration management.
3. Yang models can be reused across different applications, promoting consistency and reducing development time.
4. With Yang, network operators can define not only data structures but also operational semantics, allowing for more dynamic and intelligent network management.
5. Yang is becoming increasingly essential in the context of software-defined networking as it supports automation and orchestration of virtualized resources.

Review Questions

• How does Yang contribute to the automation and programmability of network functions?
  • Yang contributes to automation and programmability by providing a standardized way to model data structures related to network functions. This allows network operators to define configurations consistently, which can be easily manipulated using automation tools. By having a clear model of how network elements are structured, it's easier to create scripts and programs that automate tasks like configuration changes or monitoring, ultimately making the network more responsive and efficient.
• Discuss the relationship between Yang and NETCONF in managing network configurations.
  • Yang and NETCONF work together as part of a modern approach to network configuration management. While Yang defines the structure of data models needed for configurations, NETCONF acts as the protocol that facilitates the actual transmission and manipulation of these configurations on devices. This synergy allows for greater flexibility in managing diverse network environments while ensuring that all configurations adhere to the defined models.
• Evaluate the impact of Yang on emerging SDN technologies and standards in the networking landscape.
  • Yang significantly impacts emerging SDN technologies by standardizing how data models are created and utilized across different platforms. This uniformity fosters interoperability among diverse network devices and applications, making it easier to integrate new technologies into existing networks. As SDN continues to evolve, Yang's role in supporting automation through model-driven approaches enhances overall efficiency, enabling networks to adapt quickly to changing demands and reducing operational costs associated with manual configurations.

Related terms

NETCONF: A network management protocol used to install, manipulate, and delete the configuration of network devices, often working alongside Yang to handle data models.

Model-Driven Networking: An approach that relies on structured data models, such as those defined using Yang, to automate network management and configuration tasks.

Service Chaining:

The process of linking multiple virtualized network functions together to create a specific service path for data traffic, often facilitated by standardized models defined in Yang.