Packt
Automating Image Creation with HashiCorp Packer for DevOps
Packt

Automating Image Creation with HashiCorp Packer for DevOps

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

10 hours to complete
3 weeks at 3 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

10 hours to complete
3 weeks at 3 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Master Packer templates using HCL to automate image builds efficiently

  • Build cloud-agnostic images for AWS, Azure, GCP, and VMware with hands-on labs

  • Integrate Packer with Terraform, Vault, and CI/CD for seamless DevOps automation

  • Debug and optimize Packer builds with breakpoints, logging, and troubleshooting techniques

Details to know

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Recently updated!

April 2025

Assessments

10 assignments

Taught in English
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There are 10 modules in this course

In this module, we will introduce HashiCorp Packer, discussing its core functionalities, advantages, and potential drawbacks. You will gain an overview of the topics covered throughout the course and learn about other HashiCorp products that integrate with Packer.

What's included

1 video1 reading

In this module, we will explore HashiCorp Packer, its significance in modern cloud and containerized environments, and how organizations leverage it for efficient infrastructure management. We will cover its installation, core components, command-line usage, and workflow, with hands-on demonstrations for real-world application.

What's included

13 videos1 assignment

In this module, we will dive into writing Packer templates using HashiCorp Configuration Language (HCL). We will explore the structure of Packer templates, migrate JSON templates to HCL2, and work with Packer's core components. Through hands-on labs, you'll gain practical experience in building and validating your own Packer templates.

What's included

5 videos1 assignment

In this module, we will explore Packer builders, which are responsible for creating machine images. We will cover various builder types, including AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and VMware, with hands-on demonstrations for each. Additionally, we will extend our knowledge by building images for different operating systems and deploying them across multiple clouds and regions.

What's included

10 videos1 assignment

In this module, we will explore the use of variables in Packer to make templates more dynamic and reusable. We will cover how to declare and use variables, work with environment variables, and integrate them into Packer templates. Through hands-on labs, you will practice creating flexible configurations using variables.

What's included

5 videos1 assignment

In this module, we will explore Packer provisioners, which automate software installation and configuration on machine images. We will examine different provisioner types, their features, and how to control their execution. Through hands-on labs, you will integrate provisioners into your Packer templates to build fully configured images.

What's included

4 videos1 assignment

In this module, we will explore post-processors in Packer, which allow additional modifications and automation after an image is built. We will cover different types of post-processors, including Docker import, Vagrant export, and Amazon AMI registration. Through hands-on practice, you will learn how to integrate post-processors into your Packer workflows.

What's included

3 videos1 assignment

In this module, we will explore best practices for organizing Packer code, ensuring scalability and maintainability. We will cover the use of modules, variables, and conditional logic to structure Packer templates effectively. Through hands-on labs, you will practice organizing Packer configurations and converting JSON templates to HCL format.

What's included

4 videos1 assignment

In this module, we will focus on troubleshooting Packer builds using debugging tools and breakpoints. You will learn how to enable and interpret debug logs, use breakpoints to inspect the build process, and apply best practices for resolving errors. Hands-on labs will provide practical experience in debugging and refining Packer configurations.

What's included

2 videos1 assignment

This section focuses on Packer integrations, how Packer can be used with other tools to create a complete build pipeline, and various integrations, such as using Packer with Ansible to automate VM images, or using Packer with Terraform to automate the creation of infrastructure.

What's included

5 videos2 assignments

Instructor

Packt - Course Instructors
Packt
575 Courses94,182 learners

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