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- Cloud

Using Packer to Create an AWS AMI
Packer lets us create machine images for a variety of platforms through code. A Packer template requires at least a builder and a communicator to provision an image. In this lab, we'll create an AWS machine image using the `amazon-ebs` builder and `ssh` communicator.

Lab Info
Table of Contents
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Challenge
Locate a Usable Source Image
- Log in to the AWS Management Console, and navigate to EC2 > AMIs.
- Filter by Owner: Amazon images and Platform: Amazon Linux. You may additionally search for platform type (
hvm
), or perform any additional filtering you deem necessary. - Look at the Source cell, and note how the source name is written.
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Challenge
Create the Packer Template
- Create a directory to store your templates.
- Create the Packer file.
- Begin the template, creating a
variables
object with variables for the access key, secret key, subnet ID, and security group.
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Challenge
Test the Template
- Update the variables in the template based on the information provided by the hands-on lab, and then save and exit the JSON file.
- Validate the template.
- Run the build.
About the author
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.
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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.