AWS CLI Configuration Guide

Installing AWS CLI

For Mac users:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)" brew update brew install awscli

For Windows: Download the MSI installer from AWS's website.

For Linux:

sudo ./awscli-bundle/install -i /usr/local/aws -b /usr/local/bin/aws

Verify installation:

aws --version

Configure AWS CLI:

aws configure

Enter your AWS Access Key ID, Secret Access Key, default region, and output format.

For multiple profiles:

aws configure --profile my_profile_name

Keep access keys secure and consider using AWS Secrets Manager for added security.

Configuring AWS CLI

Enter configure mode:

aws configure

Enter your AWS Access Key ID, Secret Access Key, primary AWS region, and preferred output format.

Settings are saved in the .aws folder:

• config for region and output
• credentials for access keys

Create additional profiles:

aws configure --profile another_profile_name

Protect sensitive credentials and consider using AWS Secrets Manager for security.

Managing AWS CLI Profiles

Create a new profile:

aws configure --profile your_profile_name

Switch profiles during AWS tasks:

aws s3 ls --profile another_profile_name

Profiles are stored in the .aws directory under credentials and config files.

Name each profile meaningfully to reflect its purpose.

Prioritize security by safeguarding AWS keys and using AWS Secrets Manager.

Security Practices for AWS CLI

• Avoid storing sensitive access keys in environment variables.
• Use AWS Secrets Manager to securely store credentials.
• Implement the principle of least privilege through AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM).
• Regularly rotate credentials.
• Monitor usage logs and set up alarms for suspicious activity.

A well-configured AWS CLI setup with proper security measures ensures effective cloud operations management.

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1. AWS Command Line Interface. Amazon Web Services. 2023.
2. AWS Identity and Access Management User Guide. Amazon Web Services. 2023.
3. AWS Secrets Manager User Guide. Amazon Web Services. 2023.