AWS CLI

The AWS CLI allows you to control AWS services from the command line. In 2025, usage is centered around AWS IAM Identity Center (formerly SSO) for secure, short-lived credentials.

When to Use

• Scripting: Automate S3 uploads (aws s3 sync).
• DevOps: Debugging permissions or inspecting resources without the Console UI.
• CI/CD: Deploying CloudFormation/CDK stacks (though specialized tools are often better).

Quick Start

# Install v2
curl "https://awscli.amazonaws.com/AWSCLIV2.pkg" -o "AWSCLIV2.pkg"
sudo installer -pkg AWSCLIV2.pkg -target /