1. terraform init
Before embarking on any infrastructure journey, you need to initialize your Terraform configuration. The terraform init command initializes your working directory, fetching and installing the necessary providers and modules as specified in your configuration files (*.tf files). This step prepares your environment for subsequent actions.
2. terraform init -upgrade
As Terraform evolves, new features and improvements are introduced. To keep your configuration aligned with the latest enhancements, the terraform init -upgrade command checks for available upgrades and updates your provider plugins to their latest versions.
3. terraform plan
Once your environment is set up, the terraform plan command is your go-to tool for visualizing what changes Terraform will apply. It generates an execution plan detailing the resources to be added, modified, or deleted. This dry-run helps you validate your configurations before making any changes to your actual infrastructure.
4. terraform apply
Ready to deploy your infrastructure changes? The terraform apply command makes it happen. Based on the execution plan generated by terraform plan, this command applies your configurations to create, modify, or delete resources. It's a crucial step in converting your infrastructure-as-code into reality.
5. terraform validate
Ensuring the accuracy of your configurations is essential. The terraform validate command scans your configuration files for syntax errors and other issues. It's a quick way to catch mistakes that could lead to failed deployments.
6. terraform fmt
Maintaining a consistent code style is vital for collaboration and readability. The terraform fmt command automatically formats your configuration files according to Terraform's style conventions. It's a small step with a significant impact on the clarity of your codebase.
7. terraform destroy
When the time comes to decommission your resources, the terraform destroy command gracefully dismantles them. This command helps prevent any lingering resources that might incur costs and allows you to clean up your environment without leaving a trace.