5 Must-Have Plugins for Ansible AWX Users

Ansible AWX is a powerful open-source automation platform that allows users to manage and deploy infrastructure through Ansible. To enhance the functionality and streamline tasks, plugins play a crucial role. In this article, we will explore five must-have plugins for Ansible AWX users to optimize their automation workflows and make the most out of this versatile tool.

1. AWX Inventory Plugin:

The inventory plugin is an essential component for managing hosts and groups in Ansible AWX. To leverage this plugin, you can use the awxinventory module in your playbooks. This plugin provides dynamic inventory capabilities, allowing you to pull in real-time information about your infrastructure. Here's a basic example command:

- name: Use AWX Inventory Plugin
  hosts: localhost
  gather_facts: false
  tasks:
    - name: Get dynamic inventory from AWX
      awx.awx.awxinventory:
        org_id: 1
        inventory_id: 1
      register: dynamic_inventory

    - debug:
        var: dynamic_inventory

This command fetches the dynamic inventory from the specified AWX organization and inventory. Adjust the parameters according to your AWX setup.

2. AWX Workflow Job Template:

Workflow job templates in Ansible AWX enable you to define a sequence of tasks that can be executed in a specific order. The awx.awx.workflow_job_template plugin allows you to interact with and manage these templates programmatically. Here's a simple example command:

- name: Launch AWX Workflow Job Template
  hosts: localhost
  gather_facts: false
  tasks:
    - name: Launch Workflow Job Template
      awx.awx.workflow_job_template_launch:
        template_id: 1
      register: workflow_result

    - debug:
        var: workflow_result

Adjust the template_id parameter to match the ID of your desired workflow job template in AWX.

3. AWX Notifications Plugin:

Staying informed about the status of your automation tasks is crucial. The awx.awx.notifications plugin allows you to set up notifications for job events, ensuring you are promptly alerted to any issues or completions. Use the following command as a starting point:

- name: Set up AWX Notifications
  hosts: localhost
  gather_facts: false
  tasks:
    - name: Configure Notification
      awx.awx.notifications:
        job_template_id: 1
        status: "failed"
        notification_configuration: "slack_integration"

This command configures a notification for a specific AWX job template that triggers when the job fails. Adjust the parameters and notification types as needed.

4. AWX Credential Plugins:

Securing sensitive information is paramount in automation. The awx.awx.credentials plugin allows you to manage credentials securely within AWX. Use the following example command to create a new credential:

- name: Manage AWX Credentials
  hosts: localhost
  gather_facts: false
  tasks:
    - name: Create Credential
      awx.awx.credentials:
        name: "My SSH Credential"
        credential_type: "Source Control"
        inputs:
          username: "your_username"
          password: "your_password"

Adjust the name, credential_type, and inputs parameters to match your specific credential requirements.

5. AWX Callback Plugin:

The callback plugin is a powerful tool for extending the functionality of Ansible AWX. It allows you to capture events during playbook runs and perform custom actions. Here's a basic example command to enable a callback plugin:

- name: Enable AWX Callback Plugin
  hosts: localhost
  gather_facts: false
  tasks:
    - name: Enable Callback Plugin
      awx.awx.callback_plugin:
        job_template: 1
        enabled: true