Partial backend configuration in Terraform - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a partial backend configuration in Terraform?

A partial backend configuration means you set some backend settings in your Terraform code but provide the rest later, often during initialization. It helps keep sensitive info out of code.

beginner

Why use partial backend configuration instead of full configuration?

Partial configuration lets you avoid storing sensitive data like access keys in code. You can enter them securely when running 'terraform init'.

intermediate

How do you provide missing backend settings in Terraform?

You provide missing backend settings interactively when running 'terraform init' or by passing a backend config file or command-line options.

intermediate

What happens if you run 'terraform init' with partial backend config?

Terraform asks you to enter the missing backend settings. Once complete, it configures the backend and stores state accordingly.

beginner

Give an example of a partial backend configuration block in Terraform.

Example: terraform { backend "s3" { bucket = "mybucket" # region and key will be provided later } }

What is the main benefit of using partial backend configuration in Terraform?

A To speed up Terraform plan execution

B To disable state storage

C To avoid writing any backend configuration

D To keep sensitive backend details out of code

Partial backend configuration allows you to keep sensitive info like access keys out of your code by providing them later.

When using partial backend config, how do you provide missing settings?

A During 'terraform init' interactively or via command-line options

B By editing the Terraform state file

C By running 'terraform apply' first

D By modifying the provider block

Terraform prompts for missing backend settings during 'terraform init' or you can pass them as command-line options.

Which command initializes Terraform and configures the backend?

A terraform plan

B terraform init

C terraform validate

D terraform apply

'terraform init' initializes the working directory and configures the backend.

If you omit a backend setting in your Terraform code, what happens?

A Terraform uses a default value automatically

B Terraform fails with an error immediately

C Terraform asks for the missing value during initialization

D Terraform ignores the backend

Terraform prompts you to enter missing backend settings during 'terraform init'.

Which backend is commonly used with partial configuration for remote state in AWS?

A s3

B local

C azurerm

D gcs

The 's3' backend is commonly used in AWS and supports partial configuration.

Explain what partial backend configuration is and why it is useful in Terraform.

Think about how you keep secrets safe when sharing code.

Describe the steps Terraform takes when you run 'terraform init' with a partial backend configuration.

Focus on the initialization process and user interaction.