Overview :
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to build custom images from standard ISO files for different cloud platforms (GCP, AWS, and Azure) using HashiCorp Packer. It addresses common scenarios involving the use of ISO images downloaded from RHEL or SUSE and outlines the process for importing these images into cloud environments.
Building a GCP,AWS,Azure Image from an ISO
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Prepare Your ISO File:
- Download the desired ISO from the RHEL or SUSE website and upload it to :
- Google Cloud Storage (GCS) bucket for GCP
- S3 bucket for AWS
- Azure Blob Storage container for Azure
- Download the desired ISO from the RHEL or SUSE website and upload it to :
2. Set Up Local Hypervisor:
- Use a local hypervisor like vSphere or QEMU to create a virtual machine using the ISO file.
- Perform the installation as you would normally do on a physical machine.
3. Configure Packer Template:
- Create a Packer template that specifies the use of the local VM and the necessary post-processor to import into different cloud environments.
Please note : Packer does not include a built-in post-processor specifically for Azure like it does for AWS and GCP. Instead, Azure images are typically built using the Azure ARM builder, which directly creates images in Azure without a separate post-processor step.
4. Run the Packer Build:
- Execute the Packer build command to create the image and import it into GCP.
Conclusion
Building images from standard ISO files for GCP, AWS, and Azure using Packer involves utilizing local hypervisors and post-processors for image import. By following the outlined steps, users can effectively create custom images tailored to their specific requirements.
References :
https://developer.hashicorp.com/packer/integrations
https://developer.hashicorp.com/packer/docs/post-processors
https://developer.hashicorp.com/packer/docs/commands/build
https://developer.hashicorp.com/packer/integrations/hashicorp/azure