Using HCL with Packer

Libraries: If you want this lab, consider one of these libraries.
Cloud

Using HCL with Packer

While Packer was initially created to allow users to use JSON to describe their desired image builds, it now also supported HashiCorp Configuration Language 2, which has some additional benefits to JSON, such as breaking up our build into reusable files. In this lab, we'll explore creating a parallel Amazon and Docker image build using HCL building blocks.

Get started Contact sales

Lab Info

Level

Intermediate

Last updated

Aug 10, 2025

Duration

30m

Challenge

Refactor the Sources
1. Review the setup of the current build.
2. Notice both builders and how they are set up.
3. Let's now re-create the amazon-ebs build as our first source.
  
  Be sure to update the access_key, secret_key, and subnet_id with the values provided on the lab page.
4. Save and exit, and then do the same for Docker.
5. Save and exit.
Challenge

Refactor the Builds
1. Review the provisioners, noting how one uses the only option. This means we need to think about how we break up our build. Let's first create our production build.
2. Add our dev build.
3. Remove the last shell provisioner block and update the source.
Challenge

Test the Build
1. Test the build.

About the author

Pluralsight Skills

Pluralsight Skills gives leaders confidence they have the skills needed to execute technology strategy. Technology teams can benchmark expertise across roles, speed up release cycles and build reliable, secure products. By leveraging our expert content, skill assessments and one-of-a-kind analytics, keep up with the pace of change, put the right people on the right projects and boost productivity. It's the most effective path to developing tech skills at scale.

Real skill practice before real-world application

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.

Learn by doing

Engage hands-on with the tools and technologies you’re learning. You pick the skill, we provide the credentials and environment.

Follow your guide

All labs have detailed instructions and objectives, guiding you through the learning process and ensuring you understand every step.

Turn time into mastery

On average, you retain 75% more of your learning if you take time to practice. Hands-on labs set you up for success to make those skills stick.