Edition: Saturday, March 2nd, 2024 Welcome to March!   Today, I want to talk about one common challenge a DBA may encounter.  Scripting a database(s).  There are a few common scenarios that may require this.  Here are a few: Needing to create an empty shell of an existing database for testin...

Introduction: In part 5, we created the remaining configuration scripts that we'll use to create the Windows Server 2022 golden image.  At this point, your AutomatedSandboxFramework directory should resemble the screenshot below.   Here's what we'll accomplish by the end of this post: C...

Introduction: In part 4, we created the autounattend.xml and PackerShutdown.bat files and created the source block.   Most machine builds require additional configuration after installing the OS.  At this point, you generally wouldn't turn the server over to the application or database team w...

I use Ansible in my virtual sandbox to configure and maintain Linux and Windows servers. I aim to set up my sandbox to match most of the production environments I've previously worked with.  Most require using Kerberos over NTLM or strongly encourage its use.  The sandbox I'm configuring already ...

Introduction: Imagine you're walking into a job interview or taking on a new role. During the interview, the hiring manager asks, "What sets you apart from the other twenty candidates I've interviewed?" How would you respond? If you've mastered Ansible and efficient automation, your answer might...

Introduction: Inventory files lie at the core of Ansible.  They are a crucial component that organizes and categorizes the target hosts to which Ansible will apply configurations.  In this post, I'll walk you through the essentials of an Ansible inventory file, covering its basic structure and s...

Introduction: Setting up a Windows managed node is a crucial step in leveraging Ansible for managing your Windows infrastructure efficiently.  In this post, we'll walk through the process of setting up a Windows managed node using Ansible, enabling you to automate tasks on your Windows machines ...

Introduction: In continuing the "Getting Started With Ansible" series, I will cover the control node, how to install it, and end with a quick demo of the process.  In the next post, we'll cover how to set up an inventory and connect to both a Linux (RHEL) and Windows host.  Before we start, thou...

Introduction: Ansible is a powerful automation tool that can simplify your IT configuration tasks and boost productivity.  If you've found yourself overwhelmed with repetitive manual tasks, Ansible might be your new best friend.  Let's look at some of Ansible's key concepts.  I'll dive into the ...

Need access to the latest versions of Red Hat Enterprise Linux or other software Red Hat offers?  The Red Hat Developer Subscription for Individuals offers a fantastic opportunity to explore, learn and experiment with RHEL without the commitment of a full production subscription.  Let's cover the...