Why is automation important for network operations? Why do Carriers expect a lot of progress from this issue? Because, in the context of network operations, there are two forces at work and going in opposite directions: one is scale and the other one is operation expenses. Is it possible to accomplish both at the same time? Potentially yes, by using APIs to make applications interface with the operating system and building an on-box automation capability inside the system. Developping such a set of tools would allow a customer to define and execute a sequence of commands to automate the tasks he had to do manually before. He would develop theses sequences based on a “decision tree”, having complete control over what to do and based on a user input, on a command or on events. He would automate day to day repetitive tasks.		For example: a customer facing a problem-failure because of human error could avoid the problem with a script automation defining the rules to catch those errors before they happen. Another important issue is green automation: a network would turn off and save energy by shutting down some of the ports after office hours automatically. Will carriers save billion of dollars this way as stated in the arguments of equipment vendors? What are the main technical issues for achieving network automation? Responses will be given during the Network Automation conference to be held in Novotel Convention & Wellness Paris CDG from the 1st to 3rd of June 2010. The conference agenda is online.