Ansible Tower Role-Based Access Control (RBAC)

1. Introduction

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) in Ansible Tower allows administrators to define user roles and permissions, ensuring that users only have access to the resources they need to perform their tasks. This enhances security and simplifies user management.

2. Key Concepts

Key Definitions

**Role**: A set of permissions that can be assigned to users, allowing access to specific resources.
**User**: An individual who requires access to the Ansible Tower platform.
**Team**: A group of users that can be assigned roles collectively.
**Organization**: A top-level container for users, teams, and projects.

3. Roles in RBAC

Common Roles

**Admin**: Full access to all resources and settings.
**User**: Limited access, can execute jobs and view job results.
**Auditor**: Can view job results and logs, but cannot execute jobs.

4. Setting Up RBAC

Follow these steps to set up RBAC in Ansible Tower:

Log in to Ansible Tower as an admin user.
Navigate to the Settings tab.
Click on Access Controls.
Select the Roles tab to create or edit roles.
Assign roles to users or teams based on their requirements.

Note: Always test role assignments with a non-admin user to ensure correct permissions.

5. Best Practices

To ensure effective management of RBAC, consider the following best practices:

Use the principle of least privilege when assigning roles.
Regularly review role assignments and permissions.
Group users into teams for easier management of roles.
Document role definitions and permissions for clarity.

6. FAQ

What is RBAC?

Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) is a method of regulating access to computer or network resources based on the roles of individual users within an organization.

How do I create a new role?

To create a new role, navigate to the Access Controls section in the Ansible Tower settings and select "Add Role". Define the permissions and assign it to users or teams.

Can I customize roles in Ansible Tower?

Yes, you can create custom roles in Ansible Tower based on the permissions required for specific tasks.

7. Conclusion

Implementing RBAC in Ansible Tower is critical for maintaining a secure and efficient operational environment. By understanding roles, permissions, and best practices, you can effectively manage user access and enhance security.