AWS Systems Manager: Patch Manager and Run Command
As a Cloud Solutions Architect, understanding how to effectively manage and maintain your AWS instances is crucial. AWS Systems Manager provides a unified interface to automate operational tasks across your AWS resources. This module focuses on two key capabilities: Patch Manager for automated patching and Run Command for executing commands remotely.
Patch Manager: Automating Instance Patching
Keeping your instances up-to-date with the latest security patches is a fundamental aspect of cloud security and compliance. Patch Manager simplifies this process by automating the deployment of patches for your Amazon EC2 instances and on-premises servers.
Patch Manager automates the application of operating system and application patches.
Patch Manager allows you to define patch baselines, schedule patch deployments, and monitor the patching status of your instances. It supports various operating systems, including Windows and Linux.
Patch Manager leverages patch baselines, which are collections of approved patches. You can create custom baselines or use AWS-managed baselines. Patching can be scheduled to occur during maintenance windows, minimizing disruption. It also provides detailed reports on which instances have been patched and which have failed, enabling efficient troubleshooting.
To automate the deployment of operating system and application patches to AWS instances and on-premises servers.
Run Command: Executing Commands Remotely
Run Command allows you to remotely and securely execute commands or scripts on your managed instances. This is invaluable for performing administrative tasks, troubleshooting, and deploying software without needing to manually log in to each instance.
Run Command enables secure, remote execution of commands on managed instances.
You can use pre-defined Run Command documents (e.g., for installing software, running scripts, or rebooting instances) or create your own. It supports both EC2 instances and on-premises servers managed by Systems Manager.
Run Command uses SSM documents, which are essentially scripts or configurations that define the actions to be performed. These documents can be written in various formats, including shell scripts, PowerShell, or Python. You can target specific instances or groups of instances, and view the output of the commands in real-time or retrieve it later. This capability is essential for operational efficiency and incident response.
Imagine Patch Manager as an automated maintenance crew for your servers. It follows a strict schedule, checks for necessary updates (patches), and applies them to ensure everything is secure and running smoothly. Run Command is like a remote control for your servers, allowing you to send specific instructions (commands or scripts) to perform tasks like installing an application or checking system status, all without physically being there.
Text-based content
Library pages focus on text content
| Feature | Patch Manager | Run Command |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Automated patch deployment | Remote command/script execution |
| Use Case | Security updates, compliance | Task automation, troubleshooting, software deployment |
| Configuration | Patch baselines, schedules | SSM documents (scripts, commands) |
| Targeting | Instances based on tags, OS | Specific instances or tags |
Key Considerations for Cloud Solutions Architects
When designing solutions, consider how Patch Manager and Run Command integrate with your overall operational strategy. For Patch Manager, define clear patch baselines and maintenance windows that align with your business continuity plans. For Run Command, develop reusable SSM documents for common administrative tasks to promote consistency and reduce manual effort. Ensure proper IAM roles and policies are in place for secure access and execution.
Leveraging Systems Manager Patch Manager and Run Command is critical for maintaining a secure, compliant, and efficiently managed AWS environment, directly contributing to the reliability and availability of your cloud solutions.
Learning Resources
Official AWS documentation detailing the capabilities and features of Patch Manager, including how to set up and use it.
AWS documentation explaining how to use Run Command to execute commands and scripts on your managed instances.
A comprehensive guide to setting up and configuring Patch Manager for automated patching.
Detailed instructions and examples for using Run Command to manage your instances.
A blog post offering practical advice and best practices for implementing automated patching with Patch Manager.
A blog post demonstrating common use cases and techniques for Run Command.
A video tutorial providing a step-by-step walkthrough of configuring and using Patch Manager.
A video tutorial demonstrating how to use Run Command for various administrative tasks.
An overview page for AWS Systems Manager, highlighting its broad range of capabilities for operational management.
Frequently asked questions about AWS Systems Manager, including specific questions related to Patch Manager.