Which Encryption Algorithms Does Ansible Vault Support?

Encryption plays a pivotal role in securing sensitive information, especially in the realm of automation and configuration management. Ansible Vault is a powerful tool that ensures the confidentiality of sensitive data used in Ansible playbooks. In this article, we delve into the encryption algorithms supported by Ansible Vault, shedding light on how it fortifies the security of your automation processes.

Understanding Ansible Vault:
Before delving into encryption algorithms, it's crucial to grasp the basics of Ansible Vault. Ansible Vault allows users to encrypt sensitive data, such as passwords and API keys, and seamlessly integrate them into their Ansible playbooks. This ensures that confidential information is kept secure, even when stored in version control systems.

Encryption Algorithms Supported by Ansible Vault:

1. AES (Advanced Encryption Standard):
   Ansible Vault primarily employs AES, a widely adopted and trusted encryption algorithm. AES comes in different key lengths, including 128-bit, 192-bit, and 256-bit. The default key length used by Ansible Vault is 256-bit, providing a robust level of security.

2. GCM (Galois/Counter Mode):
   Galois/Counter Mode is a mode of operation for symmetric-key cryptographic block ciphers, and it's notable for providing both confidentiality and integrity. Ansible Vault supports GCM, enhancing the security of encrypted data by ensuring its integrity along with confidentiality.

Using Ansible Vault with Encryption Algorithms:

1. Encrypting a Variable:
   To encrypt a variable using Ansible Vault, use the following command:

   ansible-vault encrypt_string 'your_sensitive_data'
   

2. Creating an Encrypted File:
   To create an encrypted file with Ansible Vault, use:

   ansible-vault create encrypted_file.yml
   

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Encrypting Data:
   Start by encrypting sensitive data using the encrypt_string command. For instance:

   ansible-vault encrypt_string --vault-password-file=password.txt 'your_secret_data'
   

2. Editing an Encrypted File:
   Open an encrypted file for editing with:

   ansible-vault edit encrypted_file.yml --vault-password-file=password.txt
   

3. Decrypting Data:
   Decrypting data is straightforward:

   ansible-vault decrypt encrypted_file.yml --vault-password-file=password.txt
   

More Examples:

1. Changing Vault Password:
   Update the Ansible Vault password with:

   ansible-vault rekey encrypted_file.yml --vault-password-file=new_password.txt
   

2. Encrypting an Entire File:
   Encrypt an entire file with:

   ansible-vault encrypt your_file.yml --vault-password-file=password.txt
   

Understanding the encryption algorithms supported by Ansible Vault is crucial for maintaining the security of sensitive information within automation workflows. By leveraging strong encryption algorithms like AES and GCM, Ansible Vault ensures that your confidential data remains protected throughout its lifecycle.