Key Benefits

Automatic IP Allocation
Tracks used IPs
Prevents IP conflicts
Scalable approach

Dynamic Inventory Management
Automatically updates Ansible inventory
Supports adding multiple switches in one command

Flexible Configuration

Easily modify network ranges
Configurable VLAN and gateway settings

Recommended Enhancements

Add logging mechanism
Implement IP conflict detection
Create rollback functionality
Add error handling for network connectivity

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Deployment Steps

Run IP allocation script
Execute Ansible playbook


./switch_inventory_manager.py 10
ansible-playbook deploy_switches.yml


Potential Improvements

Integrate with IPAM (IP Address Management) systems
Add validation checks for network connectivity
Create a web interface for switch provisioning

Potential Challenges

Network Segmentation: Ensure Ansible control node can reach management VLAN
Firewall Rules: Configure necessary network access
Credential Management: Use Ansible Vault for sensitive information

Security Best Practices

Use key-based authentication
Implement role-based access control
Use strong, unique passwords
Limit SSH access
Enable logging and monitoring