Skip to main content

AWS Systems Manager

What is it​

A suite of features that helps visualize, manage, and operate nodes (EC2 instances, on-premises servers, VMs) at scale across AWS, on-premises, and multicloud environments.

What it's for​

Automate operational tasks, ensure compliance and security, and simplify infrastructure management.

Use cases​

  • Automation of operational tasks (e.g., patching, script execution, software updates)
  • Server and software inventory management
  • Secure remote access to instances without the need for SSH or RDP (Session Manager)
  • Patch management and security compliance
  • Storage and management of configuration parameters (Parameter Store)
  • Troubleshooting and diagnosing instances

Key points​

  • Automation: Automates common server management tasks
  • Inventory management: Collects data about your servers and installed software
  • Session Manager: Provides secure and auditable access to instances without opening inbound ports
  • Patch Manager: Automates the process of applying security patches
  • Parameter Store: Stores and manages configuration data and secrets
  • Run Command: Executes commands on multiple instances simultaneously
  • Fully managed: AWS handles the Systems Manager infrastructure

Comparison​

  • AWS Systems Manager: Offers a managed and integrated solution for automation and operations management in AWS and hybrid environments. Reduces the complexity of configuring and maintaining configuration management tools.
  • Configuration management tools (self-managed): Offer greater flexibility and customization, but require the user to manage the tool's infrastructure and develop playbooks/recipes. Suitable for complex or multi-cloud environments that require a high degree of customization.