Exploring AWS Cloud9: A Developer’s Dream Workspace!

Blaise NGWA SHU
3 min readOct 13, 2023

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Introduction

Are you a developer looking for an efficient and collaborative coding environment in the cloud? Look no further than AWS Cloud9!

AWS Cloud9 is a cloud-based integrated development environment (IDE) that simplifies the process of building, debugging, and deploying applications. Here’s why it’s a game-changer for developers:

Ease of Setup

Creating your Cloud9 environment is a breeze. With just a few clicks in the AWS Management Console, you can have a fully configured IDE up and running.

Collaboration Made Simple

Cloud9 enables real-time collaboration with team members, making it easy to work on projects together, regardless of your location. Share your development environment effortlessly!

Pre-Installed Tools

Cloud9 comes with a wide range of pre-installed development tools, including code editors, debuggers, and terminal access. No need to spend time configuring your environment.

Access Anywhere

Access your Cloud9 environment from anywhere with an internet connection. Say goodbye to the limitations of a single workstation!

Customizable

Tailor your development environment to suit your needs. Install additional software, configure shortcuts, and personalize your workspace.

Integration with AWS Services

Seamlessly integrate with other AWS services, such as Lambda, EC2, and S3, to streamline your development workflow.

Security

Rest easy knowing that your Cloud9 environment is secure. AWS manages the infrastructure, so you can focus on coding while AWS takes care of the rest.

Use Cases:

Whether you’re working on web development, serverless applications, or machine learning projects, Cloud9 can be your go-to IDE.

Getting started with AWS Cloud9 is a fantastic way to supercharge your development efforts and collaborate effectively with your team. Give it a try and experience the future of cloud-based coding!

Ready to dive in? Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up your AWS Cloud9 environment

Step 1: Sign in to the AWS Console

Step 2: Navigate to Cloud9 Dashboard

  • Use the “Services” dropdown or search for “Cloud9” in the search bar to navigate to the Cloud9 service.

Step 3: Create an Environment

  • In the Cloud9 dashboard, click the “Create environment” button.

Step 4: Configure Your Environment

  • Provide a name for your environment.
  • Choose one of the following options for the environment type:
  • Create a new instance for environment (EC2): This option allows you to create a new Amazon EC2 instance for your environment.
  • Connect and run in your own (SSH) server: This option lets you connect to your own server using SSH.

Step 5: Configure Instance Settings (EC2 Option)

  • If you choose the “Create a new instance for environment (EC2)” option, you’ll need to configure your EC2 instance settings.
  • Choose an instance type, and optionally customize your VPC and subnet settings.

Step 6: Review and Create an Environment

  • Review your environment configuration.
  • Click the “Create environment” button.

Step 7: Access Your Cloud9 Environment

  • Once the environment is created, you can access it through your web browser.
  • You’ll be presented with the Cloud9 IDE, where you can write, run, and debug code.
  • You can create and manage files and projects within the IDE.

Step 8: Customize Your Environment (Optional)

  • Customize your Cloud9 environment by installing additional software, configuring preferences, and setting up development tools as needed.
  • You can also collaborate with others in real time using Cloud9’s collaboration features.

Step 9: Start Developing

  • You can now start writing and running code in your Cloud9 environment.
  • Cloud9 provides built-in support for multiple programming languages and frameworks.

Step 10: Save and Shutdown (EC2 Option)

  • If you created an EC2-based environment, remember to save your work and shut down the EC2 instance when you’re done to avoid incurring unnecessary charges.

That’s it! You’ve successfully created and set up an environment in Amazon Cloud9. You can use Cloud9 for various development tasks, including coding, testing, and collaboration with team members.

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