Today, we’ll walk through how to create AWS SSM Parameters using the AWS Management Console and how to access both String and SecureString parameters.

Step 1: Navigate to the AWS Systems Manager

1. Log into the AWS Management Console.
2. In the search bar, type Systems Manager and select it.
3. In the Systems Manager dashboard, scroll down to the Parameter Store section under Application Management.

Step 2: Create a String Parameter

1. In the Parameter Store section, click Create parameter.
2. Fill in the fields:
   • Name: MyStringParam
   • Description: Enter any description.
   • Tier: Standard
   • Type: Select String
   • Value: HelloWorld
3. Click Create parameter at the bottom to save.

Now, your parameter MyStringParam is created.

Step 3: Create a SecureString Parameter

1. Return to the Parameter Store and click Create parameter again.
2. Fill in the fields as follows:
   • Name: MySecureParam
   • Description: For sensitive data
   • Tier: Standard
   • Type: Select SecureString
   • KMS Key ID: Use the default AWS managed key or select a custom key.
   • Value: MySecretValue
3. Click Create parameter to create the secure parameter.

Step 4: Access the Parameters

Accessing the String Parameter:

1. Go back to the Parameter Store dashboard.
2. Search for MyStringParam in the list.
3. Click the parameter name and view its value directly in the console.

Accessing the SecureString Parameter:

1. Search for MySecureParam.
2. Click the parameter name.
3. By default, the value will be encrypted. To view the decrypted value, click the Show button next to the value.

Step 5: Using the Parameter in Your Applications

You can now use these parameters in your applications or AWS services. AWS SDKs, CLI, and Lambda functions can all retrieve these parameters.