During last years, novel protocols and data models are arising to control and monitor optical network equipment. These protocols enable network programmability and automation by fulfilling the vision introduced by Software Defined Networking (SDN).This paper offers an overview and hands-on experience on programming the necessary tools to control and monitor the network equipment. These tools introduce the necessary network programmability that will enable its automation, following current Zero-Touch service control and management. Data modelling languages are firstly explored. Later, protocols for control and monitoring are presented. Moreover, common standards data models are discussed. Finally, an evaluation of the different presented protocols and data models is provided, which includes recommendations for their selection and deployment.