RH294 focuses on using Ansible to automate Linux system management tasks, covering Ansible installation, Playbook writing, variable management, role reuse, troubleshooting, etc. The course objectives include configuring a managed host inventory, protecting sensitive data (such as Ansible Vault), deploying files to multiple hosts, etc. It is suitable for system administrators who need to improve their automation capabilities.

The exam lasts 4 hours and requires 16 tasks to be completed on 6 virtual machines. All operations must be implemented through Ansible Playbook (scripts are disabled). The exam environment has been pre-configured with SSH password-free login. Candidates must save the Playbook in the specified directory as a normal user. Misuse of root permissions may result in zero points

The new version of RHCE (RHEL 8) focuses on Ansible automation in 30%, requiring candidates to master skills such as Playbook writing, role deployment, and dynamic inventory management. The old version of EX300 (RHEL 7) has been gradually phased out, and EX294 emphasizes the combination of Ansible and Shell scripts to solve actual operation and maintenance problems.

The course outlines directly match the exam requirements, for example:

• Module 3: Write a multi-task Playbook;
• Module 8: Deploy roles through Ansible Galaxy;
• Module 10: Automated software management, user rights configuration and other system tasks

Starting from 2020, RHCE certification will switch to RHEL 8, adding the EX294 exam (replacing EX300), focusing on Ansible automation capabilities. The old RHEL 7 exam was discontinued on April 30, 2020. The new certification requires the combination of Ansible and Shell scripts, reflecting the trend of enterprise automation operation and maintenance.

Need to useAnsible VaultEncrypt variable files (such as passwords, API keys), throughansible-vault encryptCommand to protect data. If confidential information is involved in the exam, Vault must be used correctly, otherwise the task may fail.

1. Roles can modularize the Playbook and separate functions through directory structures (such as tasks, vars).rhel-system-roles) or import from Ansible Galaxy to increase code reuse and reduce maintenance costs

RHCE certification is valid for 3 years from the date of acquisition. Renewal can be done in the following ways:

• Re-pass the EX294 exam;
• Obtain other advanced certifications (such as RHCA);
• Pass the RHCSA exam for Red Hat Enterprise Linux 8 within the validity period

1. It is recommended to prepare in stages:
   1. Basic stage: Master the core concepts of Ansible (lists, modules, tasks);
   2. Practical stage: Complete at least 10 complex Playbook projects (such as configuring a web cluster, managing storage);
   3. Practice Exams: Use the Red Hat official experimental environment or a third-party question bank (such as the exercises provided by the CSDN blog).
      You need to be familiar with time management before the exam and ensure that all tasks are completed within 4 hours.