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Labs

Building a Google Compute-Backed Image with Packer

Packer allows us to use JSON or HCL code to describe and generate machine images, such as Google Compute images. In this lab, we'll explore using Packer with GCP, including credential creation, before writing our build from scratch to save an image of a web instance.

Labs

Path Info

Level
Clock icon Intermediate
Duration
Clock icon 30m
Published
Clock icon Oct 02, 2020

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Table of Contents

  1. Challenge

    Access the Console, Create Credentials, and Pull Down Files

    1. In the GCP console, navigate to APIs & Services > Credentials.
    2. Click Create Credentials > Service account.
    3. Set the name of the new API service account, and then give it Project Editor permissions.
    4. Press Continue > Done.
    5. Navigate to the Compute Engine dashboard.
    6. Next to the provisioned packer-workstation instance, click SSH to access the instance.
    7. Create a working directory, and add the necessary lab files.
    8. Create the account key.
  2. Challenge

    Create the Template

    Review the provided files, and create a template for our GCP builder following the details provided in the instructions; be sure to work from the packer/booksite directory.

  3. Challenge

    Test the Build

    Validate and test the build.

The Cloud Content team comprises subject matter experts hyper focused on services offered by the leading cloud vendors (AWS, GCP, and Azure), as well as cloud-related technologies such as Linux and DevOps. The team is thrilled to share their knowledge to help you build modern tech solutions from the ground up, secure and optimize your environments, and so much more!

What's a lab?

Hands-on Labs are real environments created by industry experts to help you learn. These environments help you gain knowledge and experience, practice without compromising your system, test without risk, destroy without fear, and let you learn from your mistakes. Hands-on Labs: practice your skills before delivering in the real world.

Provided environment for hands-on practice

We will provide the credentials and environment necessary for you to practice right within your browser.

Guided walkthrough

Follow along with the author’s guided walkthrough and build something new in your provided environment!

Did you know?

On average, you retain 75% more of your learning if you get time for practice.

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