> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.ahmadraza.in/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Ec2 Image Builder

# EC2 Image Builder

Amazon **EC2 Image Builder** helps automate the creation, maintenance, and deployment of secure, up-to-date OS images (AMIs and container images).

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## 1. Why Use Image Builder?

* Automates AMI creation and updates
* Ensures images are patched and compliant
* Integrates with **SSM, CloudWatch, and IAM**
* Works for both **EC2 AMIs** and **ECR container images**

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## 2. Core Components

1. **Image Pipeline** – Defines the workflow (build, test, distribute).
2. **Recipe** – What software, packages, and settings to include.
3. **Infrastructure Configuration** – The build environment (instance type, VPC, IAM role).
4. **Distribution Settings** – Where to share/publish the image (Regions, accounts).

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## 3. Setup Steps (Console)

### Step 1: Create Image Recipe

* Go to **EC2 Image Builder > Image Recipes**
* Choose a **base image** (e.g., Amazon Linux 2, Ubuntu)
* Add **components** (security patches, software installs, scripts)

### Step 2: Create Infrastructure Config

* Define **instance type** for build (e.g., t3.medium)
* Attach **IAM role** with SSM + EC2 permissions
* Configure **VPC, subnet, and security groups**

### Step 3: Create Pipeline

* Go to **Pipelines > Create Pipeline**
* Attach recipe + infrastructure config
* Add **schedule** (manual, daily, weekly, etc.)

### Step 4: Run Pipeline

* Start the pipeline → AWS will launch a temporary EC2 instance
* Build + test steps execute automatically
* New **AMI** (or container image) is created and distributed

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## 4. Verification

* Go to **EC2 > AMIs** and check for your new image
* Launch an EC2 instance using the custom AMI
* Confirm software and patches are applied

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## 5. Notes

* Image Builder integrates with **CloudWatch for monitoring**.
* Use **SSM Automation** for post-build checks.
* You can **share AMIs across accounts and regions**.

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