🏃 Virtual Machine Snapshot Runbook¶

This runbook provides step-by-step instructions to create and remove virtual machine snapshots using Ansible. Snapshots can be used as a rollback point before deploying updates or making significant changes.

1️⃣ Login to an Ansible Control Node¶

Start by logging into a control node with Ansible installed and prepare the environment:

cd ~/ansible
source /opt/python_3.12/bin/activate

⚡ Important: Always start on the control node so all subsequent commands run in the correct environment.

2️⃣ Pull the Latest Code¶

Ensure your local Ansible repository is up to date:

git pull origin main

⚡ Important: Pulling the latest code first prevents conflicts and ensures you’re using the latest playbooks and inventory.

3️⃣ Create a VM Snapshot¶

To create a snapshot for a specific host or VM group:

ansible-playbook -i $INV -k playbooks/vms/create_vm_snapshot.yml 

• The playbook will create a snapshot with a timestamped name.

⚡ Tip: Always create a snapshot before deploying updates or making major changes to ensure a quick rollback if needed.

4️⃣ Verify Snapshot Creation¶

1. Log in to your virtualization management interface (e.g., Proxmox, VMware, or Hyper-V).
2. Confirm that a new snapshot exists for the target VM with the correct timestamp.
3. Optionally, check snapshot metadata to ensure it includes the expected VM state.

5️⃣ Remove a VM Snapshot¶

After verifying updates or if the snapshot is no longer needed, remove it:

ansible-playbook -i $INV -k playbooks/vms/remove_vm_snapshot.yml

• Confirm the snapshot has been deleted via your virtualization interface.

✅ Notes¶

• Snapshots are temporary rollback points, not backups. Keep them only as long as needed.
• Use descriptive naming conventions or timestamps for snapshots to avoid confusion.
• Always verify snapshot creation before making changes to production or critical VMs.
• If snapshot creation or removal fails, check the Ansible logs and the virtualization host for errors.