This Ansible module gathers operational and configuration details from Cisco IOS network devices. It functions by connecting to a target device, executing commands via the command-line interface (CLI), and parsing the output into structured data. This data includes information regarding interfaces, routing protocols, security settings, and hardware specifications, providing a comprehensive snapshot of the device’s current state. For example, it can retrieve the configured IP addresses on all interfaces, the status of OSPF adjacencies, or the device’s serial number.
The value of this module lies in automating network audits, configuration validation, and troubleshooting tasks. Historically, network engineers relied on manual CLI commands and screen scraping to gather device information, a process prone to errors and scalability issues. This module eliminates these inefficiencies, allowing for consistent data collection across numerous devices and enabling proactive network management. Its use enhances network visibility, simplifies compliance reporting, and accelerates problem resolution.
