AWS CloudShell: Web-Based Command-Line Access

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has introduced CloudShell, a comprehensive, browser-based shell environment built on Amazon Linux 2. This new tool is designed for developers seeking to utilize familiar command-line utilities and scripts directly within the AWS Console.

According to Amazon CTO Werner Vogels’ recent announcement, CloudShell provides developers with access to a Linux console directly through their web browser. Upon initiating a new CloudShell session, it is automatically configured with the identical API permissions as the user’s AWS Console access.

Image Credits: AWS

Vogels highlighted that this eliminates the need for managing numerous profiles or API credentials across various testing and production settings, a common requirement when working within a traditional terminal environment. He explained that with credentials automatically provided, developers can quickly begin a new CloudShell session and immediately leverage the pre-installed AWS tools.

Alongside essential tools like Bash, Python, Node.js, PowerShell, VIM, and git, CloudShell comes pre-loaded with a full suite of AWS command-line tools. Furthermore, users have the flexibility to install additional tools of their preference. While the operating system configuration does not remain consistent across sessions—allowing for a fresh start if issues arise—users are allocated up to 1GB of persistent storage for their work.

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Each region supports up to 10 simultaneous shells at no cost. Developers requiring a higher capacity can submit a request for an increase.

Currently, the service is available in the following AWS regions: U.S. East (N. Virginia), U.S. East (Ohio), U.S. West (Oregon), Europe (Ireland) and Asia Pacific (Tokyo), with plans for expansion to additional regions in the future.

It is important to note that competing cloud providers, Google Cloud Platform and Microsoft Azure, also offer comparable services. Notably, Google’s offering is also named Cloud Shell, but distinguishes itself with a space between the words.