Ansible Variables Guide¶

Variables help you keep playbooks flexible instead of hardcoding values for every host.

Group Variables¶

Use group variables when the same value applies to many hosts.

http_port: 80
ntp_servers:
  - 0.pool.ntp.org
  - 1.pool.ntp.org

Host Variables¶

Use host variables only when one server needs different values.

http_port: 8080

Practical Advice¶

• Put shared values in group variables first
• Keep host variables small and specific
• Use clear names that match the service or purpose

Quick Check¶

ansible-inventory -i inventory.ini --host myserver