logo
Menu
A better way to connect to the private EC2 instances

A better way to connect to the private EC2 instances

Using AWS EC2 Connect Endpoint to Connect EC2 Instances from private subnets

connectvpc-endpointawssecurityssh
Amit Tidke
Published Feb 17, 2024
So, you’ve got these super-secretive EC2 instances tucked away in your private subnet. They’re like the James Bonds of the cloud world — sipping martinis (or maybe just some good old coffee) and keeping their IP addresses on the down low. But hey, you need to connect to them, right? Let’s dive into the world of EC2 Connect Endpoint and make those covert connections.

What’s the Deal with EC2 Connect Endpoint?

Imagine this: You’re in your cozy VPC, surrounded by private subnets. Your instances are chilling there, minding their own business, and they don’t even have a public IPv4 address. They’re like introverts at a party — no flashy signs saying “Hey, I’m here!” But you need to chat with them, maybe share some secrets or just check if they’re doing okay.
Enter the EC2 Connect Endpoint. It’s like a secret tunnel — a private hotline to your instances. No public IP required!

How It Works

  1. Create the Endpoint: First, you create an EC2 Connect Endpoint in your VPC. Think of it as your encrypted Bat-Signal. Specify the instance ID you want to connect to. Optionally, you can provide the endpoint itself (because why not?).
  2. Private Tunnel Magic: The endpoint acts as a private tunnel. It’s like whispering secrets through a secure phone line. No eavesdroppers allowed!
  3. Subnet Love: Once you’ve set up the endpoint, it’s like having a secret handshake with your subnets. You can connect to any instance in any subnet within your VPC. Just make sure your subnets are cool with each other — they should be on speaking terms.

Benefits of EC2 Connect Endpoint

  1. No Public IPv4 Drama: Your instances can stay incognito. No need for public IPv4 addresses or the bastion server. And guess what? No AWS charges for those public IPs and bastion servers, so you’re saving some bucks!
  2. Gateway-Free Zone: Forget about internet gateways. You don’t need them. Your VPC can keep its mystery intact.
  3. IAM Superpowers: Control access like a boss. IAM policies and permissions decide who gets to play with the endpoint. No unauthorized guests crashing the party!

How to Get Your Own EC2 Connect Endpoint

  1. Log into your AWS account. (You know the drill.)
  2. Navigate to the VPC dashboard.
  3. In the left navigation panel, click on “Endpoints”.
  4. Click on “Create endpoint” button.
  5. Name Tag (Optional): Give your endpoint a cool name.
  6. Service Category: Choose “EC2 Instance Connect Endpoint”.
  7. VPC: Select the VPC where you want to create the endpoint.
  8. Additional Settings:
  • Preserve Client IP:
  • If you want your client’s IP address to be the source when connecting to an instance, select the check box. It’s like using your secret decoder ring.
  • Note: When this option is turned on, your instance’s security group must allow traffic from your client IP address. Safety first!
  • If you prefer the elastic network interface IP address to be the source, clear the check box. When it’s turned off, you can connect to any IP address that’s routable from the VPC.
  • Security Groups (Optional): Choose a security group to associate with the endpoint. If you skip this, the default security group for your VPC will step in. Security is our middle name.
  • Subnet: Select the subnet where the magic will happen. It’s like choosing the right alley for your secret meeting.
  • Tags (Optional): Add a tag if you want to keep things organized. Maybe label it “TopSecret” or “EyesOnly.”
Click “Create Endpoint”. The countdown begins. The initial status is Pending — our secret agents are on the move. Wait until it turns Available (usually just a few minutes). To keep an eye on the endpoint status, check out “Describe an EC2 Instance Connect Endpoint”.

Connect to Private EC2 instance using EC2 Connect:

  1. Back in the EC2 dashboard, select your instance. Click “Connect”.
  2. Choose “EC2 Instance Connect”. It’s like activating your spy gadgets.
  3. Select “Connect using EC2 Instance Connect Endpoint”. Remember that cool endpoint you created? Choose it.
  4. Click “Connect”. Boom! You’re now connected to your EC2 instance, all stealthy and smooth.
So there you have it! EC2 Connect Endpoint — the secret sauce for connecting to your undercover EC2 instances. No more public IP drama, no more gateway fuss. Just smooth, encrypted chats with your instances.
 

Comments