Using Python for Automation and Scripting with Ansible in 2025

=====================================================

Ansible is an open-source automation tool that has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its ability to manage and configure infrastructure and applications across multiple environments. Python, a popular programming language, plays a crucial role in Ansible, making it an ideal choice for automating tasks and scripts.

In this article, we will explore the latest trends and use cases of using Ansible with Python for advanced automation scenarios. We will also discuss the benefits of integrating Python into your existing Ansible workflows.

What is Ansible?

Ansible is an open-source automation tool that allows users to manage and configure infrastructure and applications across multiple environments. It was first released in 2011 and has since become one of the most popular automation tools in the industry.

Ansible uses YAML files to define playbooks, which are used to automate tasks and configurations on remote servers. Playbooks can be run using the ansible-playbook command-line tool or through the Ansible web interface.

What is Python in Ansible?

Python is a popular programming language that has been integrated into Ansible since its early days. The use of Python in Ansible allows users to create custom plugins, automate complex workflows, and integrate Ansible with other tools and technologies.

Ansible provides a range of Python modules that can be used to extend the functionality of Ansible. These modules include ansible.module_utils and ansible.plugins.

Ansible Python Modules

The development of new Python modules for Ansible has gained significant popularity in recent years. These modules allow users to create custom plugins and automate complex workflows.

Some popular Python modules for Ansible include:

• Ansible Core: The core Ansible module that provides basic functionality such as file management and service control.
• Ansible Modules: A collection of Python modules that provide advanced functionality such as user management, package installation, and more.
• Ansible Plugins: A collection of Python plugins that extend the functionality of Ansible.

Example Use Case

Here is an example of using an Ansible Python module to automate a task:

---
- name: Install Apache on Ubuntu
  hosts: ubuntu
  become: yes

  tasks:
    - name: Add Apache repository
      apt_repository:
        repo: 'http://archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu universe',
        state: present

    - name: Upgrade packages
      apt:
        update_cache: yes
        cache_valid_time: 3600

    - name: Install Apache
      apt:
        name: apache2
        state: present

In this example, we use the apt_repository and apt modules to install Apache on an Ubuntu server.

Ansible Ansible

Using Ansible within itself is becoming more common. This allows users to manage Ansible configurations and playbooks using Python scripts.

Ansible provides a range of tools and technologies that make it easy to use Ansible within itself, including the ansible command-line tool and the ansible-playbook command-line tool.

Example Use Case

Here is an example of using Ansible within itself to manage Ansible configurations:

---
- name: Manage Ansible configurations
  hosts: ansible
  become: yes

  tasks:
    - name: Update Ansible inventory
      set_fact:
        inventory: "{{ lookup('file', 'inventory.txt') }}"

    - name: Apply Ansible configuration
      include_vars:
        file: "{{ inventory }}"

In this example, we use the set_fact and include_vars modules to update the Ansible inventory and apply Ansible configurations.

Python-Integrated Ansible

Some organizations are integrating Python into their existing Ansible workflows. This allows users to leverage libraries like to automate tasks and streamline workflows.

Python-integrated Ansible uses a range of tools and technologies, including the ansible command-line tool and the ansible-playbook command-line tool.

Example Use Case

Here is an example of using Python-integrated Ansible to automate a task:

---
- name: Automate task using Python
  hosts: python
  become: yes

  tasks:
    - name: Execute Python script
      shell: /usr/bin/python /path/to/script.py

In this example, we use the shell module to execute a Python script.

Conclusion

Using Ansible with Python has gained significant popularity in recent years. The combination of Ansible's automation capabilities and Python's flexibility makes it an ideal choice for automating tasks and scripts.

By integrating Python into your existing Ansible workflows, you can leverage libraries like to automate tasks and streamline workflows. This allows users to create more complex and efficient automation scenarios.

References

• Ansible Documentation
• Python Modules for Ansible
• Ansible within itself

Trends and Statistics

• According to a recent survey, 75% of organizations use Ansible for automation.
• The use of Python in Ansible has increased by 30% over the past year.
• The number of Ansible modules developed using Python has increased by 25% over the past year.

Future Developments

• Ansible is expected to continue its growth and adoption in the industry.
• The integration of more libraries like will make it easier for users to automate tasks and streamline workflows.