My experience of learning AWS IAM by undertaking The Big IAM Challenge
Testing Permissions with AWS CLI
Exploring the Identity and Access Management (IAM) policy and using the AWS CLI was insightful for learning more about access controls in AWS. I did this by trying out the first, The Big IAM Challenge. The step-by-step process of identifying what I could access, listing objects, downloading files, and viewing the flag drove home essential lessons:
- IAM policies determine what actions a user can perform in AWS. By methodically testing what I could and could not do, I better understood the permissions granted by the policy.
- The AWS CLI is a powerful tool for interacting with AWS services. Using AWS S3 commands like `list-objects` and `cp` allowed me to explore S3 access hands-on.
- Auditing and debugging IAM can reveal overprivileged access. This challenge exposed the ability to access sensitive S3 buckets. Real-world misconfigurations could lead to data leaks.
Documenting the Process in a CTF Writeup
I also documented my steps to solve this challenge in a CTF write-up. The write-up walks through the specific AWS CLI commands used and what I learned about IAM permissions from each step.
Going through the process of explaining it to others helped reinforce the lessons on IAM policies and least privilege access.
Important Lessons Learned
Overall, the hands-on nature of this CTF challenge made concepts like IAM policies, S3 access controls, and the principle of least privilege more tangible. Working through actual commands rather than just reading about IAM drove home essential best practices in a memorable and fun way. Cloud security is complex, but gamified learning experiences like this make the journey to understanding more accessible and more enjoyable.
References:
Read More Tech Content Here ⬇️
Thanks for reading!
One moment. You should get my articles in your inbox. Subscribe here.
👩💻 Follow me on GitHub | Substack for lifestyle & cyber education 👩💻
I hope that you have a wonderful day. ✨
Follow for more:
