Private Integrations in AWS Serverless

1. Introduction

Private integrations in AWS Serverless refer to connecting AWS services in a secure and isolated manner, primarily utilizing Amazon API Gateway, AWS Lambda, and AWS VPCs. This lesson covers the key concepts, implementation steps, and best practices for achieving private integrations.

2. Key Concepts

Key Definitions

**AWS Lambda**: A serverless compute service that runs code in response to events.
**Amazon API Gateway**: A service that enables creating, publishing, and managing APIs.
**VPC (Virtual Private Cloud)**: A private network that allows you to isolate and secure resources.
**Private Link**: A service that allows private connectivity between VPCs and AWS services.

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Implementing Private Integrations

Follow these steps to set up private integrations:

**Create a VPC**: Set up a new VPC where your resources will be hosted.
**Set up Subnets**: Configure public and private subnets.
**Create an API Gateway**: Set up an API Gateway that will interface with your Lambda function.
**Configure Private Integration**: Link your API Gateway to the Lambda function using a VPC endpoint.
**Deploy and Test**: Deploy the API and test the integration.

Important Note: Ensure that your Lambda function has the necessary permissions to access the VPC.

Code Example: Creating a Lambda Function with VPC Access


aws lambda create-function \
    --function-name MyFunction \
    --runtime nodejs14.x \
    --role arn:aws:iam::123456789012:role/service-role/MyRole \
    --handler index.handler \
    --vpc-config SubnetIds=subnet-12345678,SecurityGroupIds=sg-12345678 \
    --zip-file fileb://function.zip

4. Best Practices

Use security groups to control access to your resources.
Regularly review and rotate IAM roles and permissions.
Enable VPC Flow Logs for monitoring traffic.
Use AWS CloudFormation for infrastructure as code (IaC) deployments.

5. FAQ

What is the benefit of using private integrations?

Private integrations enhance security by keeping traffic within the AWS network and preventing exposure to the public internet.

Can I use private integrations with third-party APIs?

Private integrations are primarily for AWS services. For third-party APIs, consider using a public API Gateway with appropriate security measures.

What are VPC endpoints?

VPC endpoints allow private connections between your VPC and supported AWS services, without requiring an internet gateway or NAT device.

Flowchart: Private Integration Workflow


graph TD;
    A[Create VPC] --> B[Set Up Subnets];
    B --> C[Create API Gateway];
    C --> D[Configure Private Integration];
    D --> E[Deploy and Test];