DSCv3 - The Next Generation - Steve Lee - PSConfEU 2024

In this lecture, I (Steve Lee), as an engineering manager overseeing projects like PowerShell and DCv3, provided a historical journey through server configuration evolution. Starting with manual processes, we progressed to scripting, and eventually embraced a declarative model with configuration as code. The transition from DSC v1 and v2 to the current DSCv3 framework was highlighted, emphasizing a shift towards a more cross-platform, open-source approach aligned with PowerShell.
Looking ahead, we explored the innovative features of DSCv3 designed for the modern era. We emphasized cross-platform capabilities, support for multiple languages beyond PowerShell, and a move from MOF to JSON format. Introducing new operations like export and allocate showcased the evolution of DSC into a more versatile and efficient tool for configuration management.
Diving into the intricacies of DSCv3 configuration methods, our discussion zoomed in on the interchangeability of JSON and YAML formats, schema definitions, and version management. We explored the predictive nature of the 'what if' operation, offering insights into how DSCv3 anticipates changes before actual implementation. Group resources, adapters for inter-language interoperability, and the significance of parameters in dynamic configurations were also elaborated on, presenting a holistic view of DSCv3's capabilities.
We further delved into the practical applications of export capabilities in DSCv3, shedding light on efficient machine configuration application across multiple systems. Concepts like Exist versus Ensure, resource deletion strategies, WMI integration, and potential alignment with ARM templates for node configuration were discussed. The audience actively engaged in conversations on custom resources, secure secrets integration, and the transition from PowerShell 7 to DSCv3, featuring enhanced export functionality for smoother operations.
Addressing the critical aspect of securing secrets, we explored the usage of secure parameters and proposed methods like key vaults for storing and managing secrets securely. Future integration plans with secret management tools were outlined, while addressing key topics on dependency management, conflict resolution, documentation practices, and error reporting within configurations. The roadmap for version 3.0 onwards was laid out with a dedication to quality development, concluding with practical tips on utilizing export in PowerShell classes and encouraging further dialogue and questions from the audience.
Chapters:
00:00:00 DSCv3 - The Next Generation - Steve Lee - PSConfEU 2024
00:00:10 Introduction to Desire State Configuration v3
00:03:44 Evolution to DCV2: Bring Your Own Agent
00:06:50 Brief Overview of Different Configuration Eras
00:15:25 Publishing DSC via Microsoft Store and Command Line Tool
00:28:47 Debugging and Troubleshooting DCV3 Resources
00:40:47 Usage of Secure Parameters in DCV3 Configurations
00:43:31 Understanding Resource Capabilities in DCV3
00:47:23 Introduction to the concept of "Exist" in DSCv3
00:51:32 Exploring the "Reference" function in configurations
00:55:27 Understanding the role of the "Assertion" resource in DSCv3
00:57:58 Deep dive into the functionality of the "Win-Get" example
01:00:06 Explanation of metadata injection and security context in DSCv3
01:07:06 Discussion on the future implementation of an LCM-like agent in DSCv3
01:10:43 Addressing the need for improved documentation and onboarding materials for DSCv3
01:14:21 Exploring the potential for dynamic generation of configurations using PowerShell in DSCv3
01:24:21 Importance of enhancing documentation to facilitate user understanding of DSCv3
01:27:30 Key takeaways on the new resource ecosystem enabled by DSCv3
01:28:20 Timeline overview for DSCv3, including release plans for 3.0 and beyond

[@blahbl4hblahtoo]

Man, I was really excited about this when I saw it but this presentation was so disorganized that it was for real hard to follow.