Overview
This lecture introduces the foundational steps for all AWS boot camp tracks, focusing on creating a free AWS account and setting up budget alerts to manage costs.
Creating an AWS Account
- All AWS certifications begin by creating an AWS account with proper setup for hands-on practice.
- Visit the AWS Management Console and select "create account."
- Enter a unique email address and account name; verify your email via a code sent to your inbox.
- Set a strong root user password (full access) and provide personal contact details.
- Select “personal” account type unless it’s for business/organizational purposes.
- Enter a valid credit or debit card for billing verification; AWS may place a temporary hold but won’t charge unless you exceed the free tier or after one year.
- Verify your identity via SMS or phone call with an OTP code.
- Choose the free Basic Support plan at the end of registration.
AWS Management Console Overview
- On login, you access the AWS Management Console with default or chosen region (e.g., US East 1 - Northern Virginia).
- Recently visited services appear at the top; cost and usage reports update after 24–48 hours.
- The console provides quick links to training, certifications, and AWS Health Dashboard.
Setting Up Budgets and Billing Alerts
- Budget and billing alerts help avoid unexpected real-money charges, as AWS services are metered and can exceed free-tier limits.
- Navigate to "Billing and Cost Management" via the service search in the console.
- Create a new budget using either a template (basic options) or custom settings (more control).
- For a custom budget: select “cost budget”, specify monthly and recurring, choose the amount ($1–$5 recommended), set the scope to all services, and select “unblended cost”.
- Set an alert threshold (default 80%, e.g., $4 for a $5 budget); adjust to 50% for earlier notifications if desired.
- Prefer alerts based on forecasted cost for proactive warnings.
- Enter email addresses for alert notifications; optional: SNS or Chatbot integrations.
- Review and create the budget; AWS will notify you if your spend approaches the threshold.
Key Terms & Definitions
- AWS Free Tier — A set of AWS services available for free within certain usage limits, typically for the first 12 months.
- Root User — The primary AWS account user with full access privileges.
- AWS Management Console — Web interface for managing AWS resources and settings.
- Budget Alert — Email notification when costs are projected or actually exceed specified thresholds.
- Unblended Cost — Actual usage cost attributed to your account, not averaged with other accounts.
- Forecasted Cost — AWS’s prediction of your end-of-month charges based on current usage.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Create your free AWS account and set a strong password.
- Enter billing information and choose the free support plan.
- Set up a monthly cost budget and enable email alerts.
- Explore the AWS Management Console.
- Prepare for the next module on core AWS services.