Can Ansible Run Python Scripts?

Learn how Ansible can execute Python scripts on target systems, its requirements, and examples for automating Python-based workflows.

Ansible is a versatile automation tool that can run Python scripts on target systems, making it a valuable resource for managing Python-based workflows and tasks. This article explores how Ansible can execute Python scripts, its requirements, and best practices for integrating Python into your automation pipelines.

Can Ansible Run Python Scripts?

Yes, Ansible can execute Python scripts on target systems using modules like script, command, or shell. By leveraging these modules, you can deploy, execute, and manage Python scripts efficiently.

Key Features:

Cross-Platform Compatibility: Run Python scripts on Linux, Windows, and other platforms.

Integration with Workflows: Combine Python scripts with Ansible tasks for end-to-end automation.

Dynamic Execution: Pass arguments or environment variables to scripts during execution.

How to Run Python Scripts with Ansible

1. Using the `script` Module

The script module is designed to transfer and execute scripts on remote hosts.

#### Example:

``yaml


name: Execute Python script
  hosts: all
  tasks:
    - name: Run Python script
      ansible.builtin.script: /path/to/script.py



In this example:
The Python script is transferred to the target system and executed.
The output of the script is captured for debugging or further use.

`2. Using the` command `Module`

The command module executes commands directly on the target system.



#### Example:

`yaml


name: Run Python script with command module
  hosts: all
  tasks:
    - name: Execute Python script
      ansible.builtin.command:
        cmd: python3 /path/to/script.py

`3. Using the` shell `Module`

The shell module provides more flexibility by allowing environment variables or shell-specific features.



#### Example:

`yaml


name: Run Python script with environment variables
  hosts: all
  tasks:
    - name: Execute Python script with arguments
      ansible.builtin.shell: python3 /path/to/script.py --arg1 value1
      environment:
        ENV_VAR: "example_value"



4. Passing Arguments to Python Scripts
You can pass arguments directly to the script:

`yaml


name: Run Python script with arguments
  hosts: all
  tasks:
    - name: Execute script with arguments
      ansible.builtin.command:
        cmd: python3 /path/to/script.py arg1 arg2



Deploying and Executing Python Scripts

If the script is not present on the target system, use the copy module to transfer it before execution.



#### Example:

`yaml


name: Deploy and run Python script
  hosts: all
  tasks:
    - name: Copy Python script to target
      copy:
        src: /local/path/to/script.py
        dest: /remote/path/script.py
        mode: '0755'

    - name: Execute Python script
      shell: python3 /remote/path/script.py



Capturing Script Output

Use the register keyword to capture the output of a Python script:

``yaml

name: Capture script output

hosts: all

tasks:

- nam

Can Ansible Run Python Scripts?