Build And Push Docker images to Amazon ECR using GitHub Actions and Terraform

The Build And Push Docker images to Amazon ECR using GitHub Actions and Terraform template is designed to simplify the deployment process. It explains how a straightforward setup using Terraform, GitHub Actions, and Amazon ECR can automate all the complexity of the operation on your behalf. 

Here is a basic description of how it works: 

• You keep your code and Dockerfile in a GitHub repository. 

• Each time you commit changes to the repository, GitHub Actions will build a Docker image automatically. 

• After the image is constructed, it is pushed onto Amazon ECR, which is a secure AWS container image registry. 

• Terraform simplifies the process of creating and maintaining your ECR repository as opposed to doing it manually. 

This pipeline provides you with a functional CI/CD pipeline that executes automatically each time you make changes to your code. 
 

The reasons this template represents a transformative advancement.
 

Usually, this process of managing Docker images and then pushing them to a registry becomes automated. You might have to do manual authentication to AWS, build the Docker image, tag it, and push it. Furthermore, with the team's growth, each member must perform the same set of tasks, which normally leads to errors or lag. 
 

This template does just that. Once you've deployed it: 

• With every update within a repository, image building and pushing operations are run automatically. 

• Your images in Amazon ECR are safe, reliable, and readily usable in any AWS service such as ECS or EKS. 

The use of Terraform removes the need to go to the AWS console to create repositories. Rather, one simply writes simple setup files and Terraform works out the rest. It saves time, prevents errors, and offers a structured process. That is why this template contributes significantly to daily tasks. 
 

Who can use this template, and when? 

Here is who can use this template: 

• Individual developers who are building containerized applications and wish to spend less time on deployment. 

• Small businesses or upcoming companies that require an arrangement that will always be effective without demanding additional effort. 

• DevOps professionals who wish to build a strong CI/CD process in a hurry. 

When do you use it? 

• If you already have a Dockerfile in your project and need to begin using Amazon ECR to store your images. 

• If it is desired to stop manual pushes and builds. 

• When beginning a new project, there must be a smooth workflow right from the beginning. 
   

What are the main components of the template? 

It has various components, each playing an important role in its overall operation: 

• User – You, making changes to your GitHub repository. 
   
• Dockerfile – A file that describes the process of building your Docker image. 
   
• Terraform Templates – Scripts to build and administer the Amazon ECR infrastructure. 
   
• GitHub Repository – Where your application code and Dockerfile will reside. 
   
• GitHub Actions - it is an automated process that builds and pushes your Docker image whenever changes occur. 
   
• Amazon ECR Repository – Where you keep your container images in AWS. 
   
• Amazon ECR – The AWS service that secures and stores your container images in order. 
   
• Docker Image – The image that is generated from your Dockerfile. 
   
• AWS Cloud – The environment in which all things are hosted. 
   
• Region – The AWS region that hosts your ECR and resources. 
   
• CI/CD Workflow – The automated process which builds and deploys your image. 
   
• Authentication Mechanism – How your workflow is integrated with AWS securely. 
   
• Terraform Execution Plan – The execution plan that Terraform follows to create or update your infrastructure. 
   

How to begin with Cloudairy ?

It's easy to use this template with Cloudairy. Here's how you can do it: 

• Log in to Cloudairy using your login credentials. 

• Go to the Templates section on your dashboard. 

• In the search bar, search Build and Push Docker Images to Amazon ECR. 

• Click on the thumbnail of the template to view its specifications. 

• Choose Open Template to open it in your environment. 

•  Once accessed, customization is achievable. For example, one can alter the GitHub Actions workflow, change the Terraform scripts, or modify triggers to suit needs. 

• Invite your team members if you wish to collaborate. You can grant them specific roles and give them access to your repository. 

• Visualize the workflow to see the interdependencies among Docker, GitHub Actions, and Amazon ECR. 

Once all elements appear satisfactory, you can proceed to save the modifications, export the flowchart if required, and commence utilising the pipeline. 
 

Summary 

This template provides you with an already set-up method of creating and deploying Docker images to Amazon ECR with GitHub Actions and Terraform. It prevents you from having to do it manually and establishes an automated pipeline that runs each time you commit your code. 
 

With this setup: 

Docker images are built automatically. They are pushed to Amazon ECR without additional effort. Terraform handles the infrastructure, thus freeing you from that burden. This process provides a simple yet efficient answer to container image management. Be it a lone developer or part of a team, this process increases the efficiency, dependability, and ease of maintenance of one's work. If you are willing to set aside manual builds and start the journey of adopting a structured CI/CD practice, this template is the perfect place to start.