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Understanding AWS Console and CLI Access

Mar 17, 2025

Lecture Notes on AWS Console and CLI Access

Introduction

  • The session aims to fill in any gaps from previous introductory sessions on AWS.
  • Focus is on AWS console (GUI) and CLI (Command Line Interface) access.
  • Opportunity for students to ask questions or get clarifications.

AWS Console and User Access

Console Access (GUI)

  • Console refers to the Graphical User Interface (GUI) of AWS.
  • Typically accessed via a web browser.
  • IAM (Identity and Access Management) allows user creation with specified access (Console or Programmatic).
  • Console access is mainly for GUI operations.

Programmatic Access (CLI)

  • Programmatic access involves using the CLI or other tools to interact with AWS services.
  • CLI access is for automated or scripted interactions with AWS services.
  • Companies prefer CLI for infrastructure as code, reducing manual errors.

Use Cases

  • GUI is used for manual and visual tasks, suitable for Windows users.
  • CLI is preferred by Unix/Linux-oriented users for scripting and automation.
  • Infrastructure as Code (IaC) allows for automation across different environments (Dev, Test, Prod).

Hands-On Session

Configuration Steps

  • Students are encouraged to ask questions and share screens for live troubleshooting.
  • Example task: configuring AWS CLI using aws configure command.
  • Steps include inputting Access Key ID, Secret Access Key, Default Region, and Output Format (e.g., JSON).

Troubleshooting Access Issues

  • Common issues include mismatched Access Key and Secret Access Key.
  • Steps to rectify include regenerating keys and reconfiguring CLI.

Command Examples

  • Listing users with aws iam list-users.
  • Creating users with aws iam create-user --user-name <name>.
  • Adding users to groups with aws iam add-user-to-group --user-name <name> --group-name <group>.

AWS Access Management

Best Practices

  • Always encrypt and securely transmit AWS credentials and keys.
  • Use AWS secrets manager for storing application access keys securely.

Practical Recommendations

  • Familiarize with AWS documentation for CLI commands.
  • Practice creating, listing, and managing users and groups from both the GUI and CLI.
  • Use OneNote or similar tools for organizing notes and learning.

Conclusion

  • Emphasis on the importance of understanding foundational AWS concepts.
  • Encouraged to make lifestyle changes to incorporate AWS learning daily.
  • Next session will cover AWS S3 and assignments related to IAM.

Note: This session included interactive Q&A to address individual issues and ensure understanding of AWS IAM and CLI configurations.

Full transcript