diff --git a/nixos/tests/scion/freestanding-deployment/default.nix b/nixos/tests/scion/freestanding-deployment/default.nix
index 7c09c42e8f2c..f90ec65cc9cd 100644
--- a/nixos/tests/scion/freestanding-deployment/default.nix
+++ b/nixos/tests/scion/freestanding-deployment/default.nix
@@ -140,28 +140,27 @@ in
     in
     # python
     ''
-      # List of AS instances
-      machines = [scion01, scion02, scion03, scion04, scion05]
+      vms = [scion01, scion02, scion03, scion04, scion05]
 
       # Functions to avoid many for loops
       def start(allow_reboot=False):
-          for i in machines:
+          for i in vms:
               i.start(allow_reboot=allow_reboot)
 
       def wait_for_unit(service_name):
-          for i in machines:
+          for i in vms:
               i.wait_for_unit(service_name)
 
       def succeed(command):
-          for i in machines:
+          for i in vms:
               i.succeed(command)
 
       def reboot():
-          for i in machines:
+          for i in vms:
               i.reboot()
 
       def crash():
-          for i in machines:
+          for i in vms:
               i.crash()
 
       # Start all machines, allowing reboot for later