You don’t command what you can’t see.
You don’t control what you can’t reach.
Inventories are your maps.
Your whispers travel through them.
Single Inventory File – The Starting Point
You don’t need a fleet of databases to control your operation.
The single inventory file is strong signal.
INI or YAML.
Flat. Simple. Local.
Precise and professional for small operations.
192.168.0.1
192.168.0.2
mail.deadswitch.com
Inventory Directory – Scalable And Modular
- Structured directories.
- Dynamic pieces.
- Large scale – complex theaters.
- Separate host & group vars for each inventory.
- Tactical clarity in expanding environments.
Inventory Variables – It’s How You Whisper
Not all whispers sound the same.
Sometimes you connect locally. Sometimes over SSH.
Control it. Set it. Own it.
- Connection method.
- Remote user.
- Host parameters.
Host And Group Variables – Intelligence Layers
Sharpen the strike. Whisper with precision.
- Per-host variables.
- Per-group variables.
- Custom payloads. Tailored operations.
Customize the whisper. Customize the strike.
Grouping – Forming Units
Structure your units. Form your factions.
- Logical host groups.
- Nested groups for layered control.
- Command by function. Command by territory.
Core Commands – Whispers In Action
Validate your maps. Read the battlefield.
- Validate inventories
- List hosts:
ansible-inventory -i inventory.ini --list
- Silent recon:
ansible-inventory -i inventory.ini --graph
- Convert inventories to YAML:
ansible-inventory -i inventory.ini --list --yaml
Whispers Of The Ghost
Speak to your machines.
Command your field.
But always – stay ghost.
Tom's IT Cafe 