Feature Idea: Pre-installed Modules in Device Templates

[tasuke93]

Subject: Feature Idea: Pre-installed Modules in Device Templates

Hello NetBox Developers,

I have an idea that I believe would make documenting devices much faster and easier.

When we buy a new server or access switch, it often comes with pre-installed components like a power supply (PSU) or fans. In NetBox, we still have to manually add these modules, which is a lot of extra work.

I've seen similar discussions in issues #9106 and #13699. My proposal is to give us a way to pre-install or pre-populate modules in a Device Type template.

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My Idea

I propose adding a new feature that does two things:

1. Pre-install Modules: We could set up a Device Type template so that certain modules are automatically created and added when we make a new device. For example, a server template could automatically come with its pre-installed PSUs and fans.
2. Filter Module Lists: We could limit the module list for a specific bay to only show compatible modules. This would make it much easier to find the right module and avoid mistakes. For example, a Cisco switch's line card slot would only show Cisco modules, not modules from other brands.

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Example

Think of a new server we've just bought. It has two power supplies and three fans already inside.

• With this feature, we could set up the server's Device Type template to pre-populate the two PSU modules and the three fan modules.
• When we create a new device using this template, all these modules are added automatically. We save a lot of time by not having to add them one by one.

I believe this would be a big improvement and save a lot of time for people who document servers, switches, and other devices with pre-installed components.

Thank you for your time and for considering this.