EX294 Transform data with filters and plugins Practice Question
Exhibit
Refer to the exhibit. ``` [defaults] filter_plugins = /path/to/custom_filters ```
What is the effect of the `filter_plugins` setting in `ansible.cfg`?
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap is that candidates often assume `filter_plugins` replaces the default search path (option C), but it actually adds to it. This misunderstanding arises because some Ansible configuration settings override defaults, but `filter_plugins` is additive.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
It adds the directory to the default search path for filter plugins.
The `filter_plugins` setting in `ansible.cfg` adds the specified directory to the default search path for filter plugins, not replacing it. Ansible searches default locations like `~/.ansible/plugins/filter` and the `filter_plugins` directory relative to the playbook, in addition to any directories specified by this setting. Therefore, option D is correct.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
It sets the directory for filter plugins but only for the current playbook.
Why it's wrong here
filter_plugins in ansible.cfg is global configuration, not scoped to one playbook; playbook-level filter paths come from roles or adjacent directories. It is tempting because ansible.cfg can be project-local, and it would be correct if the setting were defined per play.
- ✗
It configures the path for lookup plugins, not filter plugins.
Why it's wrong here
filter_plugins configures filter plugin directories; lookup plugins use lookup_plugins instead. It is tempting because both are plugin-path settings in the same config file, and it would be correct if the option named lookup_plugins rather than filter_plugins.
- ✗
It replaces the default search path for filter plugins with the specified directory.
Why it's wrong here
Ansible appends directories in filter_plugins to the default filter search path rather than replacing it, so existing filters remain available. It is tempting because a single-directory setting sounds exclusive, and it would be correct if Ansible discarded the built-in paths.
- ✓
It adds the directory to the default search path for filter plugins.
Why this is correct
The filter_plugins directive appends directories to Ansible's default search path for filter plugins, letting custom Jinja2 filters be located alongside built-ins. It does not enable or disable plugins; it only extends where the controller looks when resolving filter names.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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