What's the difference between check mode and a normal run?
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Quick Answer
--check performs a dry run predicting changes without making them; --diff shows the exact file changes.
Detailed Answer
Check mode lets you preview impact before touching production. Not all modules fully support it, but most core ones do. Combine --check --diff to see both what would change and the line-level diff. It's the safest way to validate a playbook against real hosts.
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Interview Tip
Recommend --check --diff before running against prod.
ansiblecheck-modesafety