Root user vs IAM user in AWS - Quick Revision & Key Differences

Recall & Review

beginner

What is the AWS root user?

The AWS root user is the account created when you first sign up for AWS. It has full access to all AWS services and resources in the account.

beginner

What is an IAM user in AWS?

An IAM user is an identity created within an AWS account to allow controlled access to AWS services and resources. It has permissions assigned by policies.

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Why should you avoid using the root user for daily tasks?

Because the root user has unlimited access, using it daily increases security risks. It's safer to use IAM users with limited permissions for everyday work.

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How do IAM users get permissions in AWS?

IAM users get permissions through policies attached to them or to groups they belong to. These policies define what actions they can perform.

beginner

What is a best practice regarding the AWS root user?

A best practice is to secure the root user with multi-factor authentication (MFA) and use it only for tasks that require root access.

Which user has full access to all AWS services by default?

A Guest user

B Root user

C IAM user

D Service user

The root user has full access to all AWS services and resources by default.

How do IAM users get their permissions?

A By default, no permissions

B Automatically full access

C By logging in as root user

D Through policies attached to them or their groups

IAM users get permissions through policies attached directly or via groups.

What is a recommended security practice for the root user?

A Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)

B Use it daily for all tasks

C Disable the root user

D Share root credentials with team

Enabling MFA on the root user adds an extra layer of security.

Why should you avoid using the root user for everyday tasks?

A It cannot access AWS services

B It has limited permissions

C It increases security risks due to full access

D It is slower than IAM users

Using the root user daily increases security risks because it has full access.

What is an IAM user?

A An identity with controlled permissions in AWS

B A temporary user created by AWS

C A guest user with no permissions

D A user with full AWS account ownership

An IAM user is an identity created to control access with specific permissions.

Explain the difference between the AWS root user and an IAM user.

Think about who has full control and who has controlled access.

Describe best practices for managing the AWS root user and IAM users.

Focus on security and access control.