Puppet
Puppet is an open-source configuration management tool that uses a declarative language to define system configurations and enforces those configurations across infrastructure using a master-agent architecture. It allows organizations to define infrastructure as code and maintain consistent system states.
Key Characteristics
- Declarative Language: Uses Puppet's domain-specific language (DSL)
- Master-Agent Architecture: Centralized management with agents
- Configuration Enforcement: Enforces desired system states
- Resource Abstraction: Abstracts system resources into manageable units
Advantages
- Maturity: Mature and stable platform
- Declarative: Declarative approach to configuration
- Cross-Platform: Works across multiple platforms
- Reporting: Comprehensive reporting and audit trails
Disadvantages
- Complexity: Complex to learn and implement
- Resource Usage: Agents consume system resources
- Learning Curve: DSL requires learning curve
- Master Dependency: Single point of failure with master
Best Practices
- Use version control for Puppet manifests
- Implement proper module organization
- Regularly update and maintain agents
- Monitor and audit configuration drift
Use Cases
- System configuration management
- Compliance enforcement
- Multi-platform management
- Infrastructure as code