In a Nutshell (🌰)
- Automations in SSM allow you to create event-driven workflows
- Triggers initiate automations based on events, schedules, or conditions
- Actions define what happens when an automation is triggered
- Automations can manage devices, containers, and execute playbooks
- Complex workflows can be created by chaining multiple automations
What is Automation in SSM?
In Squirrel Servers Manager, automation refers to the system that allows you to create event-driven workflows that respond to triggers and perform actions across your infrastructure. Automations help you reduce manual work, ensure consistency, and respond quickly to events.
Key Components of the Automation Model
1. Triggers
Triggers are events or conditions that initiate an automation:
- Schedule Triggers: Run at specified times
- Cron expressions
2. Actions
Actions define what happens when an automation is triggered:
- Playbook Actions
- Execute Ansible playbooks
- Pass variables to playbooks
- Target specific devices or groups
Automation Lifecycle
Automations in SSM follow a defined lifecycle:
- Creation: Automation is defined with triggers, conditions, and actions
- Activation: Automation is enabled and ready to respond to triggers
- Triggering: A schedule activates the automation
- Execution: Actions are performed according to the automation definition
- Completion: Automation finishes executing all actions
- Logging: Results and execution details are recorded
- Maintenance: Automation is updated or modified as needed
Common Misconceptions
Misconception 1: Automations eliminate the need for monitoring
Reality: While automations can handle routine tasks and responses, they still require monitoring and maintenance. Regularly review automation logs and performance to ensure they're working as expected.
Misconception 2: More automation is always better
Reality: Over-automation can lead to complex, hard-to-maintain systems. Focus on automating repetitive, well-understood tasks first, and carefully consider the implications of automating critical operations.
Misconception 3: Automations are set-and-forget
Reality: Automations need to evolve as your infrastructure changes. Regularly review and update your automations to ensure they remain effective and appropriate.
Related Concepts
💻 Device Model
How devices are managed and monitored in SSM
📦 Container Model
How containers are deployed and managed
📋 Playbooks Model
Using Ansible playbooks for infrastructure automation