What is AWS CloudShell?
AWS CloudShell is a browser-based, pre-authenticated shell environment with pre-installed AWS CLI and common development tools. The service runs directly in the AWS Console, is based on Amazon Linux 2023, and automatically inherits the credentials of your current console session. CloudShell is free to use and requires no setup.
Key Features
- Pre-installed AWS CLI v2, Python, Node.js, and common command-line tools
- Up to 1 GB persistent storage per region in the standard environment
- Automatic authentication with console credentials
- File upload and download via browser interface
- Support for Bash, Z shell, and PowerShell
- Optional CloudShell VPC environments for access to resources in your own VPC
Common Use Cases
Quick CLI Tasks: Launch CloudShell directly from the Console for one-off AWS CLI commands. No local CLI installation or credential configuration required.
Troubleshooting: Analyze logs, check resource status, or debug issues directly in the browser. All AWS tools are immediately available.
Scripting and Prototyping: Develop and test shell scripts or AWS SDK code in a clean environment without local dependencies.
Benefits
- No additional cost for the service itself and no setup required
- Consistent environment regardless of local machine
- Secure execution in the AWS network with Safe Paste protection
- Persistent storage for scripts and configurations in the standard environment
Integration with innFactory
As an AWS Reseller, innFactory supports you with AWS CloudShell: automation of frequent tasks, creation of onboarding scripts for new team members, and integration into support workflows.
Typical Use Cases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does AWS CloudShell cost?
AWS CloudShell itself is free. Only other AWS resources you use through CloudShell are billed, along with data transfer at standard AWS rates.
Which tools are pre-installed?
CloudShell is based on Amazon Linux 2023 and includes AWS CLI v2, Python, Node.js, and tools like git, make, pip, tar, tmux, vim, wget, and zip. PowerShell users have access to the .NET Core runtime. Additional software can be installed as needed.
Is my environment preserved?
In the standard environment, the home folder with up to 1 GB of storage per region is preserved between sessions. CloudShell VPC environments have no persistent storage; the home directory is deleted when the environment times out.
How long does a CloudShell session stay active?
A session ends after approximately 20 to 30 minutes of inactivity, and at the latest after about 12 hours of continuous use. Running background processes do not count as activity.
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