How to Create an User in AWS

Introduction

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Identity and Access Management (IAM) allows you to securely manage access to AWS resources. By creating IAM users, you can assign specific permissions, ensuring only authorized individuals can perform specific tasks. This article walks you through the steps to create an IAM user in AWS.

What is an IAM User?

An IAM user in AWS is an entity created to interact with AWS resources. Each user has unique credentials and permissions tailored to their role, allowing them to manage AWS services effectively without accessing unauthorized resources.

Steps to Create an IAM User

Step 1. Log in to the AWS Management Console.

1. Navigate to the AWS Management Console.
2. Use your AWS root account or an IAM account with administrative privileges to log in.

Step 2. Open the IAM Console.

1. In the AWS Management Console, search for IAM in the services search bar.
2. Click on IAM to open the Identity and Access Management dashboard.
   

Step 3. Add a New User.

1. In the left-hand navigation menu, select Users.
   
2. Click on the Create user button.
   

Step 4. Configure User Details.

1. User name: Enter a unique username for the user.
2. AWS Management Console access: Allows the user to log in to the AWS Management Console. You’ll also need to set an initial password (auto-generated or custom). This step is optional.
   

Step 5. Set Permissions.

1. Attach existing policies directly: Select predefined policies (e.g., AdministratorAccess, ReadOnlyAccess) to attach to the user.
2. Add user to a group: Assign the user to an IAM group that has the necessary permissions.
3. Copy permissions from an existing user: Duplicate permissions from another IAM user.
4. Attach inline policies: Customize permissions for the user.
   

While setting permissions, I choose 'Add user to group'. However, you can choose any option.

Step 6. Add Tags (Optional).

Tags are key-value pairs used to organize and identify resources. Add tags for better resource management.

Step 7. Review and Create the User.

1. Review the details and ensure everything is configured correctly.
2. Click Create user.
   

You have successfully created an IAM user in AWS, equipped with the necessary permissions and ready to manage resources securely.

Conclusion

Creating an IAM user in AWS is a straightforward process that enhances the security and efficiency of managing access to AWS resources. By following best practices and tailoring permissions to user roles, you can ensure a secure and organized AWS environment.