Ansible and Jenkins based solution for managing Virtual Machine pools

Abstract

This thesis is dedicated to creating an Ansible and Jenkins based solution for managing and deploying virtual machines across the global development ecosystem of a major enterprise specializing in advanced cargo movement and material handling. The motivation behind this initiative arises from the developers' need for a more efficient method of obtaining updated VMs. The primary goal is to establish a universally accessible framework for crafting VM templates.

The thesis serves as a comprehensive guide, detailing the setup and configuration of the environment and displaying the use of Ansible playbooks to accurately instantiate virtual machines. It provides a step by step walkthrough for developing and implementing the proposed solution. By the conclusion of this thesis, readers will gain a profound understanding of the principles, methodologies, and practical applications involved in automating VM template customization.

The approach combines the versatility of Ansible with a user friendly framework, enabling developers to easily adapt and employ the solution across diverse scenarios within the enterprise. This not only addresses the immediate need for updated VMs but also contributes to a more streamlined and accessible process for all members of the corporate environment.