Puppet is an automation tool which enables organisations to encode service configuration as a policy. This is then audited and enforced by the framework. It is an open source management tool that is freely accessible to anyone.

Overview

It was first released to the market in 2005 by Puppet labs and its growth and popularity have been on the rise since then.

The bigwigs that use puppet include:

Google

Twitter

Sun

NewYork Stock Exchange

SlideShare

Harvard University

Stanford University

Sony

Dell

RedHat

The basic principle employed is virtualisation technology, where the data is stored in virtual space. This means the data does not actually occupy any space and the front-end API will function much more efficiently. So with 10 or more virtual machines running on the same hardware or a cluster of virtual machines started with Web services, the organisations can drastically reduce the capital expenses as well as the expenditure incurred on hardware.

With Puppet being a configuration management tool, the notion of API extends to the configuration of each system. The encoded services provide a mechanism for building and maintaining the systems as well as an insight into the implications, which helps the designing and management tremendously.

How it works?

Puppet opens up a standard way of delivering and operating software, irrespective of where it runs. You are therefore in a position to define your expectation from your application and infrastructure candidly, using a common language that is easy to read. It is also possible to test, share and enforce the changes you wish to implement in the datacentre.

The puppet consists of client-server processes, the Resources Abstraction layer and a language.

Operating System

Microsoft Windows

Linux

Unix-like

Ruby

The language allows the administrator to describe a server configuration with an abstraction of the resources, users, packages and groups to name a few.

The relationship between the resources is also specified. This provides an order when the policy is applied and also allows Puppet to restart the dependent services afresh, with the change in their configuration.

Encoding infrastructure, coupled with virtualisation technology, enable Puppet to considerably reduce the feedback from changing systems that ensure the thriving of businesses.

Advantages

It is free

It acts as a central repository

Makes management efficient

No external code needed for enhancement of the applications.

Considering the ascending popularity of Puppet, the demand for Puppet expert is also on the rise.

What are qualifications expected of a Puppet expert?

The basic qualification will be a Bachelors or Master’s degree in Information technology or Computer Science. Advanced knowledge in Ruby is a must. Good knowledge of Windows, Linux and Unix is expected. Good programming skills are needed. Advanced knowledge in server based programming is highly recommended.

How will you hire your Puppet expert?

If you’re looking for a solution for your Puppet needs or if you are looking to trial a freelancer to see if they provide the levels of expertise you are looking for, using a platform such as Freelancer.com is a fantastic option.

Simply log onto the Freelancer.com website and search through a bank of talented freelancers who are willing and able to provide their services to you for your project.