Variables are a critical component of developing Terraform code. They allow configurations to become dynamic and reusable by enabling them to take input values during deployment. By incorporating variables into your Terraform code, the same code used to deploy an EC2 into one environment can be used to deploy into another. This strategy can improve the speed and efficiency of teams. For example, a database server takes a DB expert to install the server and configure the database to the most optimal settings. With Terraform, a database server build can be defined in code and use variables to configure the server's unique values for each environment. Other team members can then use the code to deploy the same configuration without the database expertise.
In this lab, you will learn how to create reusable Terraform configurations using variables.
Learning objectives
Upon completion of this beginner-level lab, you will be able to:
- Understand how to create Terraform variables
- Know the benefits of using variables
Intended audience
This lab is intended for:
- Individuals studying to take the HashiCorp Certified: Terraform Associate exam
- Anyone interested in learning how to use Terraform to manage Cloud Service Providers
Prerequisites
You should be familiar with:
- Amazon Web Services
- Fundamental understanding of DevOps
Updates
November 14th, 2023 - Lab updated to utilize CodeTour IDE
April 24th, 2023 - Resolved IDE delay
Environment before
Environment after
Jun is a Cloud Labs Developer with previous experience as a Software Engineer and Cloud Developer. He holds the AWS Certified Solutions Architect and DevOps Engineer Professional certifications. He also holds the AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Developer, and SysOps Administrator Associate certifications.
Jun is focused on giving back to the growing cloud community by sharing his knowledge and experience with students and creating engaging content.