How to Append a JSON Array with Specific Data in Ansible

Learn how to manipulate JSON data in Ansible by appending account IDs to an existing JSON array. This guide provides step-by-step instructions and sample code for clear implementation.
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How to Append a JSON Array with Specific Data in Ansible

When working with AWS configurations and Ansible, you may encounter a scenario where you need to append new data to an existing JSON array—specifically, account IDs in a configuration aggregator. In this guide, we will explore how to effectively append new account IDs to your current JSON data structure using Ansible.

The Problem

You have an existing JSON output from a command that lists configuration aggregators. Your goal is to add new account IDs to the existing array of account IDs. For example, you might want to convert this structure:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

into this:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

To achieve this, some manipulation of the JSON structure is required to ensure the accounts are properly appended.

The Solution Steps

Let's break down the solution into clear, actionable steps:

1. Store Output in a JSON File

First, you will need to store the output of your initial AWS command in a variable using Ansible. This typically involves registering the output of the command.

2. Extract Existing Account IDs

Next, retrieve the existing account IDs from the registered variable. This will allow you to use them in a list for appending.

3. Create a List of New Accounts

Define a list of new account IDs that you want to append to the existing list.

4. Iterate and Append

Using a loop, append each new account ID to the existing account IDs.

5. Update AWS Configuration

Finally, use the updated list to modify the AWS configuration using the required AWS command.

Sample Code

Here’s a complete sample code illustrating the above steps:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Sample Output

Executing the above playbook would produce output similar to this:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Conclusion

By following these steps and utilizing the provided sample code, you can efficiently append new account IDs to an existing JSON array using Ansible. This technique can be adapted for various other data manipulations as needed in your automation tasks.

If you have any questions or need further clarifications, feel free to leave a comment below!