DevOps Articles

How to Assume an IAM Role in AWS via CLI & Console

The AWS Command Line Interface (CLI) is a powerful tool that allows DevOps professionals to manage AWS services and automate workflows more efficiently. A common and useful feature of the AWS CLI is the ability to assume IAM roles. This capability enhances security by enabling users to access resources with temporary credentials, allowing for a more controlled access management process.

Assuming an IAM role through the AWS CLI involves a few straightforward steps. First, you must have the necessary permissions to assume the role. Once that’s confirmed, you can use the `aws sts assume-role` command, specifying the ARN of the role and a session name. The command returns temporary security credentials that can be used to interact with AWS services, handling tasks that require elevated permissions without exposing long-term access keys.

For teams focused on operational excellence, mastering the AWS CLI and its role assumption capabilities can lead to more efficient workflows and enhanced security measures. By leveraging these tools, DevOps practitioners can quickly adapt to project requirements while maintaining a robust security posture, making it a critical aspect of cloud management in development operations.