10 Must-Have Ansible Modules for Windows Automation

In the realm of automation, Ansible has emerged as a powerful and versatile tool for managing and configuring IT infrastructure. While traditionally associated with Linux environments, Ansible has made significant strides in Windows automation. In this article, we'll delve into the realm of Windows automation with Ansible and explore 10 must-have modules that can streamline and enhance your automation workflows.

1. WinRM - Windows Remote Management:

The cornerstone of Windows automation with Ansible is the WinRM module. This module establishes a connection with Windows hosts, enabling Ansible to execute commands and scripts remotely. To utilize WinRM, ensure it is enabled on your Windows hosts and use the following command:

ansible -m win_ping all

2. win_shell - Execute PowerShell Commands:

The win_shell module empowers Ansible to execute PowerShell commands on Windows hosts. This is a game-changer for Windows administrators, allowing them to seamlessly integrate PowerShell scripts into their automation workflows. Here's an example:

ansible -m win_shell -a "Get-Service" all

3. win_file - File and Directory Operations:

For managing files and directories on Windows hosts, the win_file module comes in handy. Whether you're creating, deleting, or modifying files, Ansible simplifies these tasks. For instance:

ansible -m win_file -a "path=C:xample.txt state=present" all

4. win_service - Manage Windows Services:

With the win_service module, Ansible facilitates the management of Windows services. Start, stop, or restart services with ease using commands like:

ansible -m win_service -a "name=serviceName state=started" all

5. win_feature - Windows Features Configuration:

The win_feature module is pivotal for configuring Windows features. Enable or disable features seamlessly across multiple hosts:

ansible -m win_feature -a "name=Telnet-Client state=present" all

6. win_updates - Windows Updates Management:

Keeping Windows systems up-to-date is crucial for security. Ansible's win_updates module simplifies the management of Windows updates:

ansible -m win_updates -a "category_names=SecurityUpdates state=installed" all

7. win_dns_client - DNS Client Configuration:

The win_dns_client module allows you to configure DNS settings on Windows hosts. Ensure your DNS configurations are standardized across your infrastructure:

ansible -m win_dns_client -a "adapter_names=Ethernet state=present" all

8. win_domain - Windows Domain Join:

Streamline the process of joining Windows hosts to a domain with the win_domain module. Simplify domain management tasks:

ansible -m win_domain -a "name=mydomain.local state=present" all

9. win_firewall_rule - Windows Firewall Rules:

Managing firewall rules is crucial for security. Ansible's win_firewall_rule module lets you configure and maintain Windows firewall rules:

ansible -m win_firewall_rule -a "name=AllowSSH direction=inbound action=allow protocol=TCP localport=22" all

10. win_group - Windows Group Management:

The win_group module facilitates the management of Windows groups. Add or remove groups effortlessly:

ansible -m win_group -a "name=mygroup state=present" all

So, Ansible has become a formidable force in the world of Windows automation. These ten modules provide a robust foundation for managing Windows infrastructure efficiently. As you explore and integrate these modules into your automation workflows, you'll witness the power and flexibility that Ansible brings to Windows environments.