Can you associate AWS Access keys to a IAM Role?

[Neeraj Vasudeva]

Can you associate AWS Access keys to a IAM Role?

[Nikee-TutorialsDojo]

Hi Neeraj,

Thank you for sending your inquiry.

To answer your question. Access keys cannot be directly associated with an IAM role. You can, however, create an IAM user first, associate access keys with that user, and then delegate the appropriate permissions to that user. The IAM Role lacks standard long-term credentials such as passwords and access keys. Instead, when you assume a role, it provides temporary security credentials for your role session.

For more details, you can visit these official documents:

https://docs.aws.amazon.com/IAM/latest/UserGuide/id_roles.html

https://docs.aws.amazon.com/IAM/latest/UserGuide/id_roles_create_for-service.html

I hope this answers your query. For additional support, feel free to contact us. We are committed in helping you pass your AWS exam on your first attempt!

Regards,

Nikee @ Tutorials Dojo

[Neeraj Vasudeva]

I agree with your verdict that the ‘Access key’ cannot be associated with the Role directly. Having said that one of the question that I recently did using your mock states otherwise. Please refer to below screenshot specifically keyword ‘They’ which i assume implies ‘Access key’

Do you think, some wording needs to be changed?

[Nikee-TutorialsDojo]

Hi Neeraj,

I understand that the explanation might come slightly off, as access keys cannot be directly associated with an IAM Role. Temporary security credentials are automatically generated when an IAM user assumes a role, which includes an access key, a secret key, and a security token. The IAM user uses these keys to make API calls to other services on behalf of the assumed role. Moreover, it’s important to note that the credentials generated when assuming a role are tied to the role user, not the actual IAM role. This means that the access keys can only be used by the IAM user who has assumed the role and is not valid outside the role session.

Having that said, our team will review this item and make necessary improvements accordingly.

Let us know if you need further assistance.

Regards,

Nikee @ Tutorials Dojo

[Neeraj Vasudeva]

Sounds good, thanks for the update & your understanding, appreciate it!

-Neeraj