Question 1

How to install ec2ssh on Ubuntu?

Accepted Answer

First, install Ruby using apt (e.g., sudo apt install ruby), then run gem install ec2ssh. Ensure AWS credentials are set up in ~/.aws/credentials as per the README.

Question 2

ec2ssh vs AWS Session Manager for SSH access

Accepted Answer

ec2ssh generates SSH config entries for direct SSH connections using instance metadata, while AWS Session Manager provides managed access without SSH keys. ec2ssh is better for traditional SSH workflows, Session Manager for secure, auditable access.

Question 3

How to filter instances by tag in ec2ssh?

Accepted Answer

In the .ec2ssh file, use the reject method or filters array with AWS SDK criteria. For example, add a filter like { name: 'tag:Environment', values: ['production'] } to include only production instances.

Question 4

Does ec2ssh work with IAM roles instead of access keys?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ec2ssh uses the AWS SDK, which supports IAM roles via instance profiles or AWS CLI configuration. Ensure your environment is set up with role-based authentication, as it relies on standard AWS credential chains.

Question 5

What to do if ec2ssh is not updating hosts?

Accepted Answer

Verify that your .ec2ssh file has correct profiles and regions, and that AWS credentials have necessary permissions like ec2:DescribeInstances. Check instance tags and filters for errors, and ensure instances are in a state included by filters.

ec2ssh

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