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Launch AWS EC2 Instances from Google Sheets using Terraform

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This automated n8n workflow enables launching AWS EC2 instances directly from a Google Sheets document. Users can specify instance details (e.g., region, instance type, key pair) in a Google Sheet, triggering the workflow to create EC2 instances via the AWS API. The workflow updates the sheet with instance information and sends confirmation emails.

Fundamental Aspects

  • Google Sheets Trigger: Initiates the workflow when a new row is added or updated in the Google Sheet.
  • Extract Instance Details: Parses region, instance type, key pair name, and instance name from the sheet.
  • Validate Inputs: Checks for required fields and valid AWS configurations.
  • Launch EC2 Instance: Uses the AWS EC2 API to launch the specified instance.
  • Update Google Sheet: Adds instance ID and status to the sheet.
  • Send Confirmation Email: Notifies the user via email with instance details.

Setup Instructions

  • Import the Workflow into n8n: Download the workflow JSON and import it via the n8n interface.
  • Configure API Credentials:
    • Set up Google Sheets API credentials with appropriate permissions.
    • Configure AWS IAM credentials with EC2 launch permissions.
    • Configure SMTP credentials for email notifications.
  • Prepare Google Sheet: Create a sheet with columns for region, instance type, key pair name, instance name, instance ID, and status.
  • Run the Workflow: Activate the Google Sheets trigger and test by adding a row with instance details.
  • Verify Responses: Check the Google Sheet for updated instance IDs and emails for confirmation.
  • Adjust Parameters: Fine-tune AWS region settings or email templates as needed.

Technical Dependencies

  • Google Sheets API: For reading and writing data.
  • AWS EC2 API: For launching and managing instances.
  • SMTP Service: For sending confirmation emails.
  • n8n: For workflow automation and integration.

Customization Possibilities

  • Add Instance Types: Support additional EC2 instance types.
  • Enhance Validation: Add checks for AWS limits or quotas.
  • Support Tags: Include custom tags for launched instances.
  • Add Logging: Integrate with a logging service for workflow tracking.
  • Customize Emails: Adjust email content or add attachments.