Startup scripts for automation in GCP - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a startup script in Google Cloud Platform (GCP)?

A startup script is a set of commands that automatically run when a virtual machine (VM) instance starts. It helps automate setup tasks like installing software or configuring settings.

beginner

Where do you specify a startup script for a VM in GCP?

You specify a startup script in the VM instance's metadata under the key 'startup-script'. This script runs every time the VM boots.

beginner

Why use startup scripts instead of manual setup on VMs?

Startup scripts automate repetitive tasks, ensure consistency across VMs, save time, and reduce human errors during setup.

intermediate

How can you debug a startup script if it fails on a GCP VM?

Check the serial port output logs of the VM in the GCP Console. Logs often show errors from the startup script to help identify issues.

beginner

What is a common format for startup scripts in GCP VMs?

Startup scripts are usually shell scripts (bash) for Linux VMs or PowerShell scripts for Windows VMs.

Where do you add a startup script for a GCP VM?

A In the IAM permissions

B In the VM's firewall rules

C In the Cloud Storage bucket

D In the VM's metadata under 'startup-script'

Startup scripts are added in the VM's metadata with the key 'startup-script' to run automatically on boot.

What happens when a startup script runs on a VM?

A It runs commands automatically when the VM starts

B It deletes the VM

C It changes the VM's machine type

D It pauses the VM

Startup scripts run commands automatically during the VM's boot process to configure or install software.

Which log helps you debug startup script errors on a GCP VM?

A Cloud DNS logs

B Cloud Audit logs

C Serial port output logs

D Billing logs

Serial port output logs show the VM's boot messages including startup script errors.

What scripting language is commonly used for Linux VM startup scripts?

A Python

B Bash shell script

C PowerShell

D JavaScript

Bash shell scripts are commonly used for Linux VM startup scripts in GCP.

Why automate VM setup with startup scripts?

A To save time and ensure consistent setup

B To increase VM cost

C To disable VM networking

D To manually configure each VM

Startup scripts automate setup tasks, saving time and ensuring all VMs are configured the same way.

Explain what a startup script is and how it helps automate VM setup in GCP.

Think about what happens automatically when a VM starts.

Describe how you would troubleshoot a startup script that is not working on a GCP VM.

Where does the VM show boot messages and errors?