Automation
In my homelab, automation plays a crucial role in managing and orchestrating various services. I use a combination of tools to automate tasks, manage configurations, and ensure that my homelab runs smoothly. Below are the key tools I use for automation.
Ansible
Ansible is my primary tool for configuration management and automation. It allows me to define the desired state of my systems using simple YAML files, which can be easily versioned and shared. Ansible's agentless architecture makes it easy to manage systems without the need for additional software on the target machines. Day to day I use Ansible for patch management, configuration management, and deployment of applications across my homelab. I also use Ansible for setting up new servers once the OS is installed. For example, adding users, installing packages, and configuring services.
Git
Git is an essential part of my automation workflow. I use it to version control my Ansible playbooks, scripts, and configuration files. This allows me to track changes, collaborate with others, and roll back to previous versions if needed. By storing my automation code in a Git repository, I can ensure that my homelab's configuration is reproducible.