Introduction

This lab provides a comprehensive, hands-on guide to setting up your foundational AWS environment, emphasizing security best practices from the outset. You will learn to create an AWS account, configure secure access using AWS Identity and Access Management (IAM), and enable crucial billing and security monitoring.

Lab Objectives

Upon completion of this lab, you will be able to:

• Create and configure a new AWS account: Understand the signup process and initial console navigation.
• Set up IAM users, groups, and roles for least-privilege access: Implement the core principles of IAM to manage access securely and efficiently, ensuring that users and services only have the permissions they need.
• Enable AWS Billing Alerts and set basic security controls: Proactively monitor your AWS spending and activate fundamental security services to protect your account.

Prerequisites

To successfully complete this lab, you will need:

• A valid email address (not previously used for AWS): This is essential for creating a new, unique AWS account.
• Internet access: A stable internet connection is required to access the AWS Management Console and services.
• Credit or debit card for AWS account registration: AWS requires payment information for account verification, even though initial usage may fall under the Free Tier.

Section 1: Create and Configure a New AWS Account

This section guides you through the initial steps of creating your AWS account and performing the first login.

Step 1: Sign Up for AWS

1. Go to https://aws.amazon.com/: Open your web browser and navigate to the official AWS website.
2. Click "Create an AWS Account": This button is typically prominent on the homepage, initiating the account creation process.
3. Enter your email address, choose an account name, and set a strong password:
   • Email Address: This will be your primary login credential for the root account. Choose an email address that you have secure, long-term access to.
   • AWS Account Name: This is a friendly name for your AWS account that will appear in the console. Choose something descriptive, like "MyPersonalAWSLab" or "YourName-AWSAccount".
   • Password: Create a password that is complex, unique, and not easily guessable. AWS typically enforces strong password policies, requiring a mix of uppercase letters, lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
4. Enter your contact information and payment details:
   • Contact Information: Provide accurate personal or business contact details as requested.
   • Payment Details: Even if you plan to use the AWS Free Tier, a valid credit or debit card is required for identity verification and to cover any costs that exceed the Free Tier limits. AWS will typically place a small, temporary authorization charge on your card, which is then reversed.