DevNet Associate (DEVASC) v1.0Infrastructure and AutomationMedium
A network engineer is tasked with configuring a new set of VLANs across 50 access switches. The engineer wants to ensure consistency and speed by using a configuration management tool that relies on a master-minion architecture for centralized control and state enforcement. Which automation tool is best suited for this requirement?
- AChef
- BPuppet
- CAnsible
- DSaltStack
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. SaltStack
SaltStack operates on a master-minion model, allowing a central Salt Master to send commands and configurations to Salt Minions running on managed devices. This architecture is ideal for enforcing a consistent state across a large number of devices.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Chef uses a client-server (master-agent) model, similar to Puppet, but SaltStack's design with ZeroMQ is optimized for high-speed, scalable communication.
- B. Puppet uses an agent-server (master-agent) model, but SaltStack is often preferred for its real-time capabilities and speed in large environments.
- C. Ansible uses a master-agentless model, connecting via SSH or API, not a master-minion architecture.
SaltStack Architecture
SaltStack uses a master-minion architecture where a central 'Salt Master' communicates with 'Salt Minions' running on managed devices to execute commands and enforce configuration state.
- Master-minion model
- Uses ZeroMQ for high-speed communication
- State enforcement and command execution
- Scalable for large infrastructures
Memory trick: Many Minions Master the Salt.