How Do I Build an AWS SSM Parameter?

Introduction

AWS Systems Manager (SSM) Parameter Store is a secure storage solution for configuration data management. It allows you to store data such as passwords, database strings, and license codes as parameter values. These parameters can be used by your applications, scripts, and other AWS services, enhancing security and simplifying configuration management.

Creating an SSM Parameter

To create an AWS SSM Parameter, we utilize the AWS SSM Parameter resource. This resource helps in securely storing configuration data, which can then be referenced across various applications.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Provider Configuration: Begin by specifying the AWS provider, including the necessary region and credentials to ensure connectivity to your AWS environment.
2. Define SSM Parameter Resource: Create an SSM parameter to store configuration data. This could be any sensitive information like a database connection string or an API key.

Below is a complete example of how to create an AWS SSM Parameter using Pulumi:

import * as pulumi from "@pulumi/pulumi";
import * as aws from "@pulumi/aws";

// Create an SSM parameter
const example = new aws.ssm.Parameter("example", {
    name: "/example/parameter",
    type: aws.ssm.ParameterType.String,
    value: "example_value",
    tags: {
        Environment: "example_environment",
    },
});
export const ssmParameterName = example.name;

Explanation of the Example

1. AWS Provider Configuration: The AWS provider is configured to use the us-west-2 region.
2. Parameter Creation: An SSM Parameter named /example/parameter is created. It is of type String and holds the value example_value.
3. Tagging: The parameter is tagged with an environment label, example_environment, to facilitate easier management and identification.
4. Exporting Parameter Name: The name of the SSM Parameter is exported as a stack output, allowing for easy reference in other parts of your infrastructure.

Key Points

• Secure Storage: SSM Parameter Store provides a secure way to store sensitive configuration data.
• Ease of Management: Parameters can be tagged for better organization and management.
• Integration: Parameters can be easily integrated and referenced across AWS services and applications.

Conclusion

Creating AWS SSM Parameters using Pulumi is a straightforward process that enhances the security and manageability of your configuration data. By following the steps outlined above, you can efficiently store and manage sensitive information, ensuring that your applications have secure and reliable access to configuration data when needed.