AWS Systems Manager (SSM) is a centralized management service that helps automate, monitor, and secure AWS and on-premises infrastructure. It simplifies operations, troubleshooting, patching, and security management.
1. Key Features of AWS Systems Manager
a) Session Manager (Secure Remote Access)
- Provides secure shell (SSH) and PowerShell access to EC2 instances without opening ports.
- No need for bastion hosts or VPNs.
- Supports IAM-based authentication and logging to CloudWatch/S3.
b) SSM Run Command (Automate Tasks Remotely)
- Runs commands across multiple EC2 instances at once (e.g., install updates, restart services).
- Works on Windows, Linux, and hybrid environments.
c) Patch Manager (Automated Patching)
- Automatically applies security patches to EC2, on-premises servers, and VMs.
- Supports scheduled patching with maintenance windows.
d) Parameter Store (Secure Configuration Management)
- Stores secrets, API keys, database credentials, and environment variables.
- Supports AWS KMS encryption for sensitive data.
e) Inventory Manager (Track EC2 Configurations)
- Collects software, OS patches, network configurations, and file details.
- Helps with compliance auditing and troubleshooting.
f) State Manager (Ensure System Compliance)
- Enforces desired system configurations using SSM documents (e.g., ensure an app is always running).
- Helps auto-remediate configuration drift.
g) Automation (Workflow Automation & Self-Healing)
- Automates complex operational tasks like instance refresh, backup, and remediation.
- Helps in auto-remediation and operational workflows.
2. AWS Systems Manager Use Cases
| Use Case | Feature |
|---|---|
| Secure EC2 Access (No SSH Keys) | Session Manager |
| Automate Patching | Patch Manager |
| Run Commands Remotely | Run Command |
| Store Secrets & Configs | Parameter Store |
| Monitor Inventory & Compliance | Inventory Manager |
| Automate Infrastructure Tasks | Automation |