Command Line Tools and Steampipe: Analyzing Cloud Services with SQL
Command line tools have become an essential part of the developer’s toolkit. However, managing cloud services with countless scripts can become overwhelming. That’s where Steampipe comes in with its approach of using SQL as a tool for analyzing cloud services.
Steampipe presents the results of SELECT statements in text form on its frontend, with the option to export in CSV, JSON, and other formats. The tool also opens a page in the browser for graphical representation and publishing to its built-in web server.
While Steampipe is limited to queries (SELECT), it offers predefined modules for preparing and analyzing query results. For example, compliance checks can be carried out to ensure that cloud environments adhere to the best practices of the Center of Internet Security (CIS).
Steampipe’s modules, called mods, provide graphical representations of results on dashboards. Compliance check mods are called benchmarks or controls, while plug-ins connect services. Mods and plugins are available on the Hub, Steampipe’s download area.
Jürgen Schuck, an employee of Materna Information & Communications SE and a project manager in the field of cloud technology consulting, is enthusiastic about Steampipe’s approach. “The cloud is a living database, and SQL replaces countless scripts,” he says.
Steampipe offers a subscription service for IT and technology professionals, providing exclusive tests, guides, and background information. Magazine subscribers can access their content even more affordably.
If you’re interested in using Steampipe to analyze cloud services with SQL, try their free trial today.
