AWS System Manager: The AWS systems manager is a management tool built specifically for use with the Amazon EC2 service, and it allows the client to collect data such as software inventory, as well as allowing the client to apply patches to the server’s operating systems and change their configurations. This tool allows the client to ensure that their servers’ operating systems are on track and are fully compliant with the needed configuration.
The Amazon systems manager provides an approach that helps deal with the scale and agility of cloud-based configuration, but it is also capable of extending into and assisting with on-site data center operations, allowing the client to make use of the systems manager to create an integrated system.
It is as easy to use as accessing from the EC2 management console, choosing which server instances should be managed, and defining the specific task that should be performed, and this service is available for no additional cost and can be used for both EC2 systems and on-site systems.
AWS System Manager Tools
The AWS systems manager contains the following tools:
Run – The run command provides the user with a method of automating mundane administrative tasks such as the remote execution of shell scripts, software updates, or changing the configuration of the operating systems or other software in the onsite data center.
State Manager – This tool allows the client to define specific operating system configurations like fire-walls and malware definitions in order to comply with the specific user-defined requirements. This tool also allows the user to specify the policy for instance configurations and assists the user by automatically applying updates as needed or up-dating configuration as needed.
Inventory – The inventory tool helps the user by assisting in collecting config and inventory information on the server instances and the software being run on them. Such information includes but is not limited to DHCP settings, agent details, custom items, and installed software. In addition, this tool allows the user to track the specific system configuration of each instance.
Maintenance Window – This tool allows the user to define a window of time when admin and maintenance tasks will be allowed to run on the user’s server instances, making sure that the user can choose when critical updates will be applied, ensuring that updates, patches, and other changes will not interrupt critical operations, and will keep the application available during peak hours.
Patch Manager –This tool allows the user to select what specific operating system and software patch should be applied over groups of instances, making it easier for the user to define what instances will get what OS and patch version, allowing the user to make sure that their instances are always running up to date software while allowing them to define certain batches of instances for testing purposes.
Automation – This tool allows the user to automate certain maintenance and deployment tasks like updating images, drivers, or agents, reducing the amount of time and focus needed to keep the software up to date.
Parameter store – This tool gives the client a location protected by encryption where they will be able to store important information such as database strings and passwords. This tool also enjoys integration with Amazon web service’s key management systems, making it easier to encrypt and protect the information contained within.