This lab introduces how to combine OpenAI platform capabilities with Cisco XDR Automate to build AI-assisted network operations workflows.

You will explore the OpenAI platform, configure automation targets, make your first Responses API call, and build specialized agents that can reason over router and firewall tasks.

Included with this lab guide is a PowerPoint based training supplement. Feel free to use it or refer to it if you have questions or reach out to a proctor.

By the end of this lab, you should be able to:

• Navigate the OpenAI platform at platform.openai.com.
• Review pre-created SSH targets and configure OpenAI and SMTP connectivity.
• Make an API call to the OpenAI Responses API.
• Review Responses API thread history and understand how context is preserved.
• Explain how XDR Automate workflows can be used as AI agent tools.
• Create a semantic router that directs prompts to the right workflow or agent.
• Build an agent specialized in router operations.
• Build an agent specialized in firewall operations.
• Test the system with different prompts and observe how routing decisions change.