Infrastructure-as-Code in Action: Automated NGINX Setup on Ubuntu via Ansible

There is a need to install the nginx package on multiple Ubuntu-based web servers to prepare a consistent environment for an upcoming project.

1. Problem Statement

There is a need to install the nginx package on multiple Ubuntu-based web servers to prepare a consistent environment for an upcoming project. The goal is to automate this process to minimize manual effort, reduce errors, and ensure uniformity across all servers.

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2. Scope of Work

Automate the installation and configuration of the nginx web server on all target Ubuntu machines using Ansible. The solution should:

• Install the nginx package.

• Ensure the nginx service is started.

• Enable the service to start automatically on system boot.

• Be idempotent, so repeated runs do not reinstall or reconfigure unnecessarily.

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3. Ansible Modules to Be Used

• apt: To install the nginx package with the latest version.

• service: To start and enable the nginx service.

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4. Approach

Create an Ansible playbook that performs the following tasks:

1. Use the apt module to install nginx with state: latest to ensure the most recent version is present and avoid reinstallation if already installed.

2. Use the service module to:

   • Start the nginx service.

   • Enable it to launch at system boot.

This approach ensures a reliable, repeatable, and efficient configuration process across all Ubuntu servers in the environment.

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5. Why We Need This Use Case:

Manually installing packages across multiple servers can lead to inconsistencies and increased human error. Automating this process using Ansible ensures consistent package management, saves time, and eliminates the need for repetitive manual steps. It is essential for setting up environments like web servers uniformly across all nodes.

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6. When We Need This Use Case:

• Setting up new web server environments on multiple Ubuntu machines.

• During deployment of a standardized tech stack across dev and prod environments.

• When scaling out applications requiring uniform configuration.

• For maintaining infrastructure-as-code principles.

• In DevOps workflows to reduce manual system administration.

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7. Challenge Questions Based on Scenarios: