In the fast-paced world of IT operations, where manual configurations can quickly become a bottleneck, automation tools like Ansible have emerged as game-changers. Imagine streamlining deployments, managing configurations across hundreds of servers, and ensuring consistency without endless scripting headaches. That’s the promise of Ansible, and the Red Hat Certified Specialist in Ansible Automation (EX407) certification takes it to the next level. As a DevOps enthusiast or system administrator, you’re likely juggling multiple tools and workflows— this certification isn’t just a badge; it’s a skill set that can transform how you handle infrastructure as code.
At DevOpsSchool, we’ve seen countless professionals elevate their careers through targeted training. Governed and mentored by Rajesh Kumar—a globally recognized trainer with over 20 years of expertise in DevOps, DevSecOps, SRE, DataOps, AIOps, MLOps, Kubernetes, and Cloud—this program stands out for its practical, hands-on approach. In this post, we’ll explore what makes the Ansible Automation certification so valuable, break down the course structure, and share why it’s a smart investment for your professional growth. Whether you’re a beginner dipping your toes into automation or a seasoned ops engineer looking to certify your skills, there’s something here for you.
Why Ansible Automation Matters in Today’s DevOps Landscape
Ansible has revolutionized configuration management by offering an agentless, simple-yet-powerful way to automate IT tasks. Unlike more complex tools, it uses YAML-based playbooks that are easy to read and maintain, making it ideal for teams adopting infrastructure as code principles. The Red Hat Certified Specialist in Ansible Automation certification validates your ability to implement enterprise-level automation, focusing on real-world scenarios like playbook development, inventory management, and secure deployments.
But let’s get real: Why pursue this now? In an era where cloud-native environments demand speed and reliability, Ansible skills are non-negotiable. According to industry trends, organizations using automation tools report up to 30% faster deployment cycles and reduced errors. This certification equips you with Ansible best practices, directly aligning with DevOps goals of collaboration and efficiency. Plus, Red Hat’s endorsement adds credibility—employers in SRE and operations roles actively seek certified specialists.
At DevOpsSchool, our Ansible training course emphasizes practical application over rote learning. You’ll not only grasp Ansible architecture but also compare it with alternatives like Chef and Puppet, helping you choose the right tool for your stack. It’s this blend of theory and practice that sets our programs apart, ensuring you’re job-ready from day one.
Who Should Enroll? Target Audience and Prerequisites
This certification isn’t just for elite developers—it’s designed for a broad spectrum of IT professionals eager to automate repetitive tasks. Ideal candidates include:
- DevOps Engineers: Streamlining CI/CD pipelines with Ansible playbooks.
- System Administrators: Managing large-scale Linux or Windows fleets without agents.
- Build and Release Engineers: Automating deployments for faster releases.
- Site Reliability Engineers (SREs): Ensuring high availability through configuration as code.
- Operations and Automation Engineers: Tackling intra-configuration drift in hybrid environments.
If you’re new to DevOps but comfortable with basic command-line operations, this is your entry point. Prerequisites are straightforward: familiarity with command-line basics, user/file management, and Linux sysadmin fundamentals. No prior Ansible experience? No problem—our course starts from the ground up. Access to a Linux system for setup is recommended, but DevOpsSchool provides cloud-based labs to make it seamless.
What if you’re coming from a Windows background? The training covers cross-platform configurations, so you’ll feel right at home.
A Peek Inside the Ansible Certification Training Course
DevOpsSchool’s Ansible Certification Training Course is a comprehensive 15-hour journey, delivered in flexible modes like live online sessions via GoToMeeting or in-person classes in cities such as Bangalore and Hyderabad. Led by industry veterans with 15+ years of experience, each module builds on the last, culminating in exam readiness for the EX407.
Here’s a high-level overview of the syllabus, structured to mirror real-world workflows:
Module 1: Foundations of Configuration Management
Kick off with the “why” behind automation. You’ll explore common server config pitfalls—like manual errors leading to downtime—and how Ansible solves them. A quick Ansible vs. Chef vs. Puppet comparison highlights its simplicity and agentless nature.
Module 2: YAML Essentials and Ansible Fundamentals
Dive into YAML syntax, then set up your dev environment. Learn core concepts: commands, modules, plays, playbooks, configurations, and inventory management.
Module 3: Mastering Ansible Modules
Hands-on with 20+ popular modules, from setup and command execution to file ops and package management (e.g., apt, yum). This is where theory meets practice—expect live demos on service handling and SELinux tweaks.
Module 4: Advanced Inventory Techniques
Go beyond basics: hosts, groups, variables, and data splitting. Behavioral parameters ensure your inventories scale for enterprise needs.
Module 5: Building Reusable Roles
Roles are Ansible’s secret sauce for modularity. You’ll create directory structures, manage dependencies, and embed custom modules—perfect for team collaborations.
Module 6: Ansible Tower for Enterprise Scale
Install and configure Tower (now AWX), handle organizations, jobs, and LDAP auth. This module preps you for production environments with logging, backups, and troubleshooting tips.
Module 7: Ansible’s Inner Workings
Unpack the architecture: How does Ansible orchestrate over SSH? Understanding this demystifies complex automations.
Module 8: Playbook Mastery
The heart of the course: Writing, running, and debugging playbooks. Cover variables, tasks, handlers, loops, conditions, Jinja2 templating, and error handling. Run plays locally or remotely—real projects seal the deal.
Module 9: Secure Server Management
Authentication, SSL, certificates, and permissions—learn to lock down your automations without sacrificing usability.
Module 10: Securing with Ansible Vault
Encrypt sensitive data effortlessly: Create, edit, and rekey vaults for passwords and keys.
Module 11: Leveraging Ansible Galaxy
Discover, install, and upload roles from the Galaxy hub. Manage dependencies like a pro.
Module 12: Custom Module Development
For power users: Build plugins and utilities, then integrate them into plays.
Throughout, you’ll tackle lab assignments on AWS (free tier or DevOpsSchool’s cloud), with lifetime LMS access for recordings and slides. Missed a session? Jump into the next batch within three months.
To help you visualize the progression, here’s a table summarizing key modules and their focus areas:
| Module | Focus Area | Key Skills Gained | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1: Config Management Intro | Problems & Solutions | Ansible Benefits, Tool Comparisons | 1 Hour |
| 2: YAML & Basics | Environment Setup | Commands, Modules, Playbooks | 1.5 Hours |
| 3: Popular Modules | Hands-On Execution | File/Service/Package Management | 2 Hours |
| 4: Inventory Deep Dive | Scaling Inventories | Variables, Groups, Data Splitting | 1 Hour |
| 5: Roles | Modularity | Dependencies, Embedding | 1.5 Hours |
| 6: Ansible Tower | Enterprise Tools | Installation, Jobs, Auth | 2 Hours |
| 7: Architecture | Core Mechanics | SSH Orchestration | 0.5 Hours |
| 8: Playbooks | Advanced Writing | Templating, Error Handling | 3 Hours |
| 9: Servers Management | Security | Auth, Permissions | 1 Hour |
| 10: Vault | Encryption | File Management | 0.5 Hours |
| 11: Galaxy | Community Roles | Installation, Uploads | 0.5 Hours |
| 12: Custom Modules | Development | Plugins, Utilities | 1 Hour |
This structure ensures balanced coverage, with 60% hands-on time.
Exam Insights: Cracking the Red Hat EX407
The EX407 exam is a performance-based test where you’ll demonstrate Ansible skills in a live environment—think writing playbooks under timed conditions. It’s 4 hours long, with a passing score of 210/300, focusing on automation scenarios like inventory setup and role deployment. No multiple-choice fluff; it’s all about proving you can automate.
DevOpsSchool’s training aligns perfectly, with mock scenarios and real-time interview questions. Graduates report 90%+ first-time pass rates, thanks to targeted prep. Upon success, you’ll earn the Red Hat Certified Specialist badge— a resume booster that signals expertise in Ansible automation.
The Perks: Benefits That Go Beyond Certification
Earning this certification isn’t just about the credential; it’s about tangible gains. Ansible slashes manual work, boosting efficiency by automating deployments and configs—freeing you for strategic tasks. In DevOps teams, it fosters collaboration via version-controlled playbooks.
DevOpsSchool sweetens the deal with extras:
- Lifetime Support: Post-training queries? Resolved via email or forums.
- Rich Resources: Interview Q&A, slides, videos, and lab access.
- Bonus Cert: Our DevOps Certified Professional (DCP) from DevOpsCertification.co, based on projects.
- Career Boost: Job alerts, resume tips, and real-life projects for portfolios.
Compare Ansible’s edge over competitors in this quick table:
| Feature | Ansible | Chef | Puppet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agentless? | Yes (SSH-based) | No (requires client) | No (agents needed) |
| Language | YAML (human-readable) | Ruby (script-heavy) | DSL (learning curve) |
| Scalability | High (roles, Tower) | Medium | High (but complex) |
| Ease for Beginners | Excellent | Moderate | Steep |
| Community Support | Vast (Galaxy hub) | Strong | Established |
Ansible wins for speed and simplicity—ideal for modern, agile teams.
Pricing keeps it accessible: Just ₹19,999 (down from ₹24,999), with group discounts up to 25%. Pay via UPI, cards, or PayPal. No hidden fees, and flexible modes fit your schedule.
Real Stories: What Our Learners Say
Don’t just take my word—our 8,000+ certified alumni rave about the program. Abhinav Gupta (5/5): “Rajesh’s hands-on examples made complex playbooks click.” Indrayani: “Interactive sessions cleared all doubts—highly recommend for SREs.” With a 4.5/5 average rating, it’s clear: This training delivers.
Under Rajesh Kumar‘s mentorship, you’ll gain insights from someone who’s shaped global DevOps strategies. His 20+ years ensure every lesson is battle-tested.
Ready to Automate Your Future? Take the Next Step
Ansible automation isn’t a trend—it’s the future of efficient IT. With DevOpsSchool’s Red Hat Certified Specialist in Ansible Automation (EX407) training, you’re not just learning; you’re building a career edge. Enroll today for limited spots in our live batches, or request pre-recorded videos to preview the magic.
Contact us to get started:
- Email: contact@DevOpsSchool.com
- Phone & WhatsApp (India): +91 7004215841
- Phone & WhatsApp (USA): +1 (469) 756-6329
Whether you’re in Bangalore, Hyderabad, or halfway across the world, let’s automate together. Your first playbook awaits—what’s holding you back?