What Is New in Ansible 5
Ansible 5 is a major release that consolidates changes from the community package and introduces significant updates to the core framework and collections.
| Category | Summary |
|---|---|
| New Features | Python 3.9+ requirement, new collection versions, ansible-core 2.12.5 base. |
| Improvements | Updated modules, plugins, and inventory scripts from included collections. |
| Deprecated | Python 3.8 and earlier support removed. Older collection versions dropped. |
| Bug Fixes | Numerous fixes ported from ansible-core and community collections. |
| Known Issues | Potential breaking changes from collection updates; testing advised. |
What are the major underlying technology shifts?
The foundation of Ansible 5 has been upgraded to a newer, more powerful base. This release is built on ansible-core 2.12.5, which provides the engine for all automation tasks.
More importantly, it mandates Python 3.9 or later. This shift allows the codebase to utilize modern Python features and improvements, leaving older versions behind. You'll need to ensure your control nodes meet this new requirement.
Which collections received critical updates?
Virtually all bundled collections have been version-bumped. This includes major updates for key components like amazon.aws, community.general, ansible.windows, and cisco.ios.
These updates bring a flood of new modules, bug fixes, and enhanced functionality for cloud, network, and Windows automation. In practice, this means you have access to newer API integrations and more robust features directly out of the box.
What should I test before upgrading?
Focus your testing on playbooks that use modules from the updated collections. Since collections can introduce breaking changes, your existing code might require adjustments.
Pay special attention to any custom inventory scripts or dynamic inventory plugins. The Python 3.9 requirement could affect them if they use deprecated syntax or libraries. A dry run in a staging environment is your best bet.
Is this a long-term support release?
No, Ansible 5 is a standard release. It follows the typical community package lifecycle, meaning it will be supported until the next major release comes out.
For long-term stability in production, you should look towards the Ansible Automation Platform releases, which have extended support cycles. This release is for users who want to stay on the cutting edge of community development.
FAQ
Why does Ansible 5 require Python 3.9+?
The upgrade allows developers to use modern Python features and syntax, making the codebase cleaner and more efficient. It also aligns with the Python community's support timeline, dropping older, unmaintained versions.
Will my playbooks for Ansible 4 work on Ansible 5?
Probably, but you must test them. The main breaking changes come from the updated collections, not the core engine. A playbook using a module that had a backward-incompatible change in its collection will fail.
What is the single biggest benefit of upgrading?
Access to all the new features and bug fixes in the updated collections without having to manually install them. You get a massive refresh of capabilities for cloud, network, and Windows automation in one package.
I use Ansible for network automation. What's in it for me?
Plenty. Collections like cisco.ios, cisco.nxos, junipernetworks.junos, and vyos.vyos were all updated. This means new network modules, improved existing ones, and critical bug fixes for your device management.
Where can I find a detailed changelog for a specific collection?
The release notes point to the version number for each included collection. You'll need to visit the respective collection's repository or changelog on GitHub to see the exact list of changes for that component.