Easily clean and format Yang code online. Beautify your network configuration data models with our free yang formatter / yang beautifier - 2025.
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YANG (Yet Another Next Generation) is a data modeling language primarily used to model configuration and state data manipulated by network management protocols such as NETCONF and RESTCONF. Designed by the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force), YANG plays a critical role in defining the structure of network configuration, operational state, and RPCs for networking devices.
YANG models are typically used to define how network devices (like routers, switches, and firewalls) can be configured programmatically. These models enable network automation, interoperability, and consistency across vendors and tools in modern networking environments.
YANG is not a programming language but a descriptive modeling language — similar to how XML or JSON defines data structure. However, like any structured format, well-formatted YANG is essential for clarity, debugging, and automation. That’s where a YANG code formatter becomes essential.
YANG was first introduced in RFC 6020 (2010) as a standardized data modeling language for NETCONF. It emerged out of the need for a unified modeling format to streamline network device configuration. Before YANG, vendors had proprietary schemas, making automation complex and error-prone.
Over time, YANG has evolved to support more than just NETCONF. The release of RFC 7950 (YANG 1.1) in 2016 expanded its capabilities, improving module versioning, import mechanisms, and extending its use into RESTCONF-based management.
Today, major networking vendors like Cisco, Juniper, Huawei, and Nokia use YANG models in their products. It’s also the backbone of network management in SDN (Software Defined Networking), NFV (Network Function Virtualization), and next-generation data centers.
module example-interfaces {
namespace "http://example.com/interfaces";
prefix "if";
container interfaces {
list interface {
key "name";
leaf name {
type string;
}
leaf enabled {
type boolean;
default "true";
}
}
}
}
In this example, YANG defines a module called example-interfaces
that models a list of network interfaces, each with a name and an enabled flag. It’s structured, readable, and ideal for generating configuration data through protocols like NETCONF or RESTCONF.
YANG files are highly structured and often deeply nested. As models grow larger — incorporating hundreds of containers, leaves, and groupings — maintaining readability becomes a challenge. A proper YANG formatter helps resolve this by organizing blocks, aligning braces, and beautifying leaf definitions.
The YANG formatter at codeformatting.com allows engineers to quickly beautify YANG code online — no need to install YANG compilers or rely on CLI tools.
grouping
and uses
constructs.While machines can parse YANG regardless of formatting, human readers need structure. Poorly formatted YANG modules are hard to debug, extend, or validate. A single misaligned leaf or forgotten semicolon can lead to cascading issues.
A YANG formatter eliminates ambiguity and enforces a clean layout for:
The online formatter at codeformatting.com makes this easy by letting you paste raw YANG code and receive a polished, indented version instantly.
As network infrastructure becomes more software-defined and API-driven, YANG will continue to play a central role. It will remain a bridge between high-level orchestration platforms and low-level device configurations.
The OpenConfig initiative, for instance, relies heavily on YANG models to define vendor-neutral schemas. Organizations like ONF (Open Networking Foundation) and IETF continue to refine the YANG standard, expanding it into service orchestration, policy modeling, and beyond.
YANG is a critical technology for modern network automation. It brings consistency, structure, and standardization to device configuration and telemetry. As the complexity of networked systems grows, clear and formatted YANG models will become essential for scaling automation.
That’s why using a tool like the YANG code formatter at codeformatting.com is not just helpful — it’s necessary. Whether you're building your first YANG module or managing a multi-vendor SDN deployment, well-formatted code improves collaboration, validation, and documentation.
Paste your YANG schema, beautify it instantly, and focus on defining networks — not struggling with indentation or brace alignment.
A code formatter focuses on fixing the style and structure of the code, while a linter identifies potential errors, bugs, or non-compliance with best practices.
A properly implemented YANG code formatter won't change the logic of your code. However, if the code contains syntax errors, the formatter may fail or produce unexpected results.
Yes, most online code formatters allow customization through configuration files, tab sizes, and other preferences.
It’s a good practice to format your code continuously. Many developers integrate formatters into their editors to apply changes on save.
Some formatters are language-specific (e.g., Black for Python), while others support multiple languages (e.g., Prettier).
Consider the primary language, team preferences, and integration capabilities when choosing a formatter.