Amazon Machine Images (AMIs)

An Amazon Machine Image (AMI) is a pre-configured template used to launch EC2 instances. It contains the operating system, application software, and configuration needed to boot a server. Understanding AMIs is essential for repeatable, reliable infrastructure.

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What Is an AMI?

An AMI is a blueprint for an EC2 instance. It packages:

• Root volume snapshot — the operating system, bootloader, and any pre-installed software
• Launch permissions — who can use the AMI (public, specific accounts, or private)
• Block device mapping — which volumes to attach at launch (root volume, additional EBS volumes, instance store)

When you launch an instance, the AMI is used to create the root volume (and any additional volumes defined in the block device mapping). The instance then boots from that volume.

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Types of AMIs

By Provider