AWS Systems Manager (SSM)

It provides a unified interface for viewing and controlling your infrastructure, automating tasks, and managing configurations. Here are some key features and components of AWS Systems Manager

AWS Systems Manager Core Components:

• Run Command: Executes commands on instances.
• State Manager: Maintains desired state configurations.
• Parameter Store: Stores configuration data and secrets.
• Automation: Automates workflows and tasks.
• Inventory: Collects and stores instance metadata.
• Patch Manager: Automates patching for instances.
• Session Manager: Provides secure access to instances.
• OpsCenter: Manages and resolves operational issues.
• Fleet Manager: Manages server fleets.
• Maintenance Windows: Schedules maintenance tasks.
• Integration with Other AWS Services:
• S3: Often used for storing logs, inventory data, and automation documents.

Resource Targets:

EC2 Instances: Managed instances running on AWS.

RDS Instances: Managed database instances.

On-Premises Instances: Servers running in your data centers or other clouds, managed through Systems Manager hybrid capabilities.

S3 Buckets: Storage for various outputs and configurations.

Network Architecture:

• VPC / On-Premises: Environments where your instances and resources reside. Systems Manager can manage instances within a VPC, across multiple regions, and on-premises systems.

Use Cases:

• Automation of Routine Tasks: Use Automation to create standardized, repeatable workflows.
• Secure Remote Management: Use Session Manager for secure, audited access without SSH or RDP.
• Configuration Management: Use State Manager and Parameter Store for maintaining consistent configurations and managing secrets.
• Compliance and Inventory Tracking: Use Inventory to collect and query instance metadata for compliance and audit purposes.
• Patch Management: Use Patch Manager to automate the application of patches across your fleet.