Packer
UnclaimedBuild identical machine images for multiple platforms from a single source template.
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TL;DR - Packer
- Creates identical machine images from a single source template.
- Automates image building for multiple platforms (e.g., AWS, Docker).
- Enables golden image pipelines and consistent infrastructure.
Pricing: Free plan available
Best for: Growing teams
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Ensures consistency across different environments
- Automates the image building process, saving time and reducing errors
- Supports a wide range of platforms and providers
- Integrates well with other HashiCorp tools like Terraform
- Facilitates immutable infrastructure practices
Cons
- Requires initial setup and configuration of templates
- Learning curve for new users, especially with advanced features
Key Features
Single source template for multiple platformsAutomated machine image creationGolden image pipeline supportIntegration with Amazon Web ServicesIntegration with DockerHCP Packer for build management across cloud providersCLI-based workflowsArtifact version revocation scheduling
Pricing
Freemium
Packer offers a generous free tier with optional paid upgrades for advanced features.
About Packer
By Toolradar Team·
Packer is an open-source tool for creating identical machine images for multiple platforms from a single source configuration. It streamlines the process of building 'golden images' that can be used across various cloud providers and virtualization technologies, ensuring consistency and reliability in deployments. By automating the image creation process, Packer helps reduce configuration drift and simplifies infrastructure management.
This tool is ideal for DevOps engineers, system administrators, and developers who need to create and manage consistent machine images across different environments, such as AWS, Docker, and other cloud platforms. It integrates seamlessly into existing CI/CD pipelines, enabling automated image builds and updates.
Packer's core value lies in its ability to produce immutable infrastructure, where every server is built from a pre-configured image, leading to faster deployments, easier rollbacks, and improved security posture. It supports a wide range of builders and provisioners, offering flexibility in how images are created and configured.
How we evaluate tools →Source: packer.io
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Packer FAQ
What is Packer?
Packer is a tool that allows you to create identical machine images for multiple platforms (like AWS, Docker, etc.) from a single source template. It's used to build golden images for use in image pipelines.
How much does Packer cost?
The core Packer tool is open-source and free to use. There is a managed service, HCP Packer, which offers automated build management across cloud providers and can be tried for free.
Is Packer free?
Yes, the core Packer tool is free and open-source. There is also a free tier available for HCP Packer, which provides automated build management features.
Who is Packer for?
Packer is for anyone who needs to create and manage consistent machine images across various platforms. This includes DevOps engineers, system administrators, and developers looking to automate their image creation process and build immutable infrastructure.
Source: packer.io