NetPilot Docs
Complete guide to using NetPilot for AI-powered network lab automation.
Last updated: February 10, 2026
Table of Contents
Getting Started
NetPilot makes it easy to create network labs using natural language. Follow these steps to get started:
- 1
Sign up for a free NetPilot account
Create your account at app.netpilot.io and access the AI-powered lab builder.
- 2
Describe your network requirements in plain English
Use natural language to tell NetPilot what kind of network you want to build.
- 3
Review the AI-generated topology
Examine the network design and configurations created by our AI.
- 4
Deploy to Containerlab or download configurations
Launch your lab in the cloud or export for local use.
Creating Your First Lab
Here are some example commands to get you started:
"Create a CCNA lab with 2 routers and 2 switches for OSPF routing""Design an MPLS network with 4 PE routers and 2 P routers""Build a data center fabric with VXLAN and EVPN""Create a multi-vendor lab with Cisco, Arista, and Nokia SR Linux"AI Command Reference
NetPilot understands natural language commands. Here are some patterns that work well:
Topology Commands
- "Create/Design/Build a [topology type]"
- "Add [number] [device type] to the network"
- "Connect [device1] to [device2] via [interface]"
Protocol Commands
- "Configure OSPF/BGP/EIGRP on all routers"
- "Set up MPLS with LDP"
- "Enable VXLAN with EVPN control plane"
Supported Devices
NetPilot supports a wide range of network devices from major vendors, powered by Containerlab.
Cisco
- IOL Routers (IOS XE)
- IOL L2 Switches (IOS)
Multi-Vendor
- Juniper cRPD Routers
- Arista cEOS Switches
- Nokia SR Linux
- Palo Alto PAN-OS Firewalls
- Fortinet FortiGate Firewalls
- FRRouting (FRR) Routers
- Linux Endpoints
Some vendor images require a BYOI (Bring Your Own Image) license on Pro or higher plans. Nokia SR Linux, FRR Router, and Linux Endpoints are pre-installed on all plans.
Lab Deployment
NetPilot supports multiple deployment options:
Containerlab Cloud
Deploy directly to our managed Containerlab instances for instant access. Choose from 4, 8, 16, or 32-core VMs depending on your plan.
Local Containerlab
Export topology files for your local Containerlab installation.
Configuration Files
Download individual device configurations for manual setup.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues
Lab won't deploy
Check that all device connections are valid and Containerlab server has sufficient resources. Verify your network topology doesn't have conflicting IP addresses or interface assignments.
AI doesn't understand my request
Try being more specific about device types, protocols, and topology requirements. Use clear, structured language and include specific technical details.
Device configurations are incomplete
Provide more details about IP addressing, VLANs, and routing requirements. The more specific your request, the more complete the generated configurations will be.