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08. EC2 Image Builder

Amazon EC2 Image Builder is a fully managed AWS service used to automate the creation, maintenance, validation, and testing of Amazon Machine Images (AMIs) or container images. It helps keep your EC2 images secure, consistent, and up to date without manual effort.

This service ensures all images are built consistently and patched with the latest updates improving both security and efficiency.

⚙️ How It Works​

🧩 Step 1: Builder EC2 Instance​

When an image build pipeline runs:

  • EC2 Image Builder automatically launches a temporary EC2 instance (called the Builder instance).
  • This instance:
    • Installs and updates software (e.g., Java, AWS CLI, firewalls)
    • Applies system updates and patches
    • Installs your custom application or dependencies
  • Once complete, an AMI is created automatically from that instance.

🧩 Step 2: Testing Phase​

After the AMI is created:

  • EC2 Image Builder can test the AMI by launching a Test EC2 instance.
  • The test instance runs predefined checks to verify:
    • ✅ Functionality (AMI boots and runs correctly)
    • 🔒 Security (patches and firewall rules applied)
    • ⚙️ Application Health (your app runs as expected)

You can skip testing if you don’t need validation.

🧩 Step 3: Distribution Phase​

Once testing is successful:

  • The final AMI can be distributed across multiple AWS Regions.
  • This enables global availability and consistent deployment environments.

⏰ Scheduling Options​

You can define when the image build pipeline runs:

ModeDescription
🕐 ScheduledRun automatically on a recurring schedule (e.g., weekly).
⚙️ ManualTrigger builds manually when needed.
🔔 Event-basedRun automatically when packages or base images are updated.

💵 Pricing​

EC2 Image Builder is free to use.
You only pay for the underlying AWS resources that the service uses during the build and test process.

ResourceBilled For
EC2 InstancesBuilder and test instances (running time only).
AMI StorageStorage cost for AMIs and snapshots.
Cross-Region ReplicationStandard inter-region data transfer charges.