How to use the command 'aws help' (with examples)

The aws help command is an integral tool for interacting with the AWS Command Line Interface (CLI). It serves as an informative guide for users navigating the broad range of functionalities that the AWS CLI offers. By leveraging this command, users can easily access detailed descriptions, available options, and related commands, effectively aiding their understanding and execution of AWS CLI tasks. The AWS CLI provides a unified tool to manage AWS services from the command line, making it crucial for efficient cloud resource management.

Use case 1: Display help

Code:

aws help

Motivation for using the example:

When you’re new to AWS CLI or need a quick refresher on what commands are available, using aws help can be a great starting point. It’s like a table of contents for the entire AWS CLI documentation right at your fingertips. This command is especially useful for beginners who are still getting accustomed to the AWS environment or for experienced users who occasionally need to refresh their memory regarding specific commands.

Explanation for every argument given in the command:

• aws: This represents the command-line interface (CLI) tool for Amazon Web Services. It allows users to interact with AWS services using text commands in a shell.
• help: This argument invokes the help functionality of the AWS CLI, providing access to an extensive range of documentation and usage guidelines.

Example output:

Upon executing this command, users might expect to see a comprehensive list of available commands, options, descriptions, and possibly pointers to further documentation for deeper dives into specific topics.

Use case 2: List all available topics

Code:

aws help topics

Motivation for using the example:

Sometimes, you need detailed information on a specific feature or aspect of the AWS CLI that isn’t covered by basic command explanations. Using aws help topics allows users to access deeper insights into specialized subjects, including security practices, configuration settings, named profiles, and more. It’s invaluable for users who need more than just the basic command list and are looking for an expanded view of the capabilities and customizable elements within the AWS CLI.

Explanation for every argument given in the command:

• aws: This represents the AWS Command Line Interface, a unified tool designed for efficient management of AWS services.
• help: This invokes the help function, offering a wealth of documentation on how to utilize various AWS CLI functions.
• topics: This specific argument requests a list of specialized subjects within the AWS CLI documentation. It directs the help utility to detail its topical guides, which cover advanced usage scenarios and configurations.

Example output:

Running this command typically results in a display of available topics, such as “environment variables,” “region selection,” and “authentication methods,” among others. Each topic often links to more in-depth resources.

Use case 3: Display help about a specific topic

Code:

aws help topic_name

Motivation for using the example:

When you’re dealing with a complex issue or need specific guidance on a part of the AWS CLI, directly querying a help topic with aws help topic_name targets your inquiry. It is incredibly practical for tasks that involve intricate AWS configurations or when a user must understand the nuances of a particular AWS CLI functionality. This allows you to hone in on relevant documentation without sifting through unrelated material.

Explanation for every argument given in the command:

• aws: This stands for the AWS Command Line Interface used to interactively manage AWS services.
• help: Invokes the help system for assistance or guidance regarding different AWS CLI functionalities.
• topic_name: A placeholder for the specific subject or topic you are seeking information on. Users replace topic_name with their desired topic of interest, which then pulls up targeted help documentation.

Example output:

If a user replaces topic_name with, for example, configuring-cli-output, the command might yield a detailed explanation on how to customize CLI output formats. This could include various formats such as JSON, YAML, table, or text, along with examples of how to implement them in AWS CLI operations.

Conclusion

The aws help command is an essential resource for anyone using the AWS CLI. Whether you’re a beginner looking to familiarize yourself with available commands or an advanced user needing detailed guidance on complex topics, these use cases demonstrate how the help system can enhance your AWS management tasks. By providing direct access to comprehensive documentation, aws help ensures that users can effectively leverage the full capabilities of the AWS CLI for managing cloud resources.