TOP TERRAFORM INTERVIEW QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS 2023 – In this article, we explore Terraform, an Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tool that simplifies the management of cloud and on-premises resources.
In technical interviews, candidates should focus on essential Terraform commands, state management, and demonstrate module usage.
What is Terraform?
HashiCorp Terraform is an infrastructure as code (IaC) solution that enables users to define cloud and on-premises resources using easily understandable configuration files.
These files can be versioned, shared, and reused, offering a consistent workflow for managing infrastructure throughout its lifecycle.
Terraform has the capability to handle various components, ranging from low-level elements like compute, storage, and networking resources to high-level features such as DNS entries and SaaS functionalities.
Why choose Terraform?
Terraform is an Infrastructure as Code (IaC) tool that allows you to define infrastructure using a declarative language (HCL). It supports multiple cloud providers, provides version control integration, and ensures repeatability, consistency, and automation.
With a rich ecosystem, modularity, and state management, Terraform simplifies infrastructure provisioning and management.
Top 10 Terraform Interview Question And Answers
Can you explain Terraform in the context of AWS?
Terraform, an advanced technology partner of AWS Partner Network (APN) and part of AWS DevOps Competency, is akin to AWS Cloud Formation. It serves as an “infrastructure as code” tool which enables the creation, modification, and versioning of AWS infrastructure.
Could you elaborate on the primary features of Terraform?
Terraform is an infrastructure as code tool that aids in the management of your infrastructure, building it as necessary. Its crucial features include:
- A user-friendly console for viewing functions
- A feature that converts HCL code to JSON format
- A configuration language with interpolation support
- A module count that records the number of modules applied to the infrastructure
Can you explain the term IAC?
IAC, short for Infrastructure as Code, is a method that enables the structuring, modification, and management of infrastructure through coding, as opposed to manual procedures. Configuration files, which can be securely altered and distributed within a company, are generated based on your infrastructure requirements.
Could you list some of the most beneficial Terraform commands?
Several beneficial Terraform commands include:
- terraform init – initializes the current directory
- terraform refresh – updates the state file
- terraform output – displays Terraform outputs
- terraform apply – executes the Terraform code and constructs things
- terraform destroy – eliminates what Terraform has built
- terraform graph – generates a DOT-formatted graph
- terraform plan – a simulated run to preview Terraform’s actions
Can Terraform on Azure facilitate callbacks?
With the use of Azure Event Hubs, callbacks are feasible on Azure. The Azure provider of Terraform offers users straightforward functionality. Microsoft Azure Cloud Shell comes with an installed Terraform instance.
Could you explain what Terraform init is?
Terraform init is a command used to initialize a working directory that contains Terraform configuration files. This command can be run repeatedly and is the initial command to be executed after creating a new Terraform configuration.
Explain what is Terraform D?
Terraform D is a plugin that is utilized on most operating systems, including Windows. By default, Terraform init seeks for plugins in the following directories.
Does using TFS API to provide resources maintain the same history as it does on the web?
Indeed, the history remains consistent with what is on the web, as the UI relies on the API. All the information available on the UI can be accessed through other means and the API.
Why is Terraform beneficial for DevOps?
Terraform employs a JSON-like configuration language known as the HashiCorp Configuration Language (HCL). Due to its straightforward syntax, HCL facilitates DevOps teams in outlining and implementing infrastructure configurations across various clouds and on-premise data centers.
Could you define the null resource in Terraform?
The null_resource in Terraform implements a standard resource library, but doesn’t perform any additional actions. The “triggers” argument allows for an arbitrary set of values that, when altered, will prompt the replacement of resources.
Average Terraform Interview Questions
- What is Terraform, and how does it aid in managing infrastructure through code?
- Describe the concept of Terraform state, its significance, and how it is handled in a team setting.
- How do you manage sensitive information, like credentials, within Terraform configurations?
- What do Terraform modules entail, and how do they contribute to making infrastructure code reusable and easy to maintain?
- Elaborate on the distinctions between the “terraform apply” and “terraform plan” commands. How do you ensure the safety of infrastructure changes before implementation?
Advanced Terraform Interview Questions
- How do you handle confidential information and secure data in Terraform? Explain the available choices and best practices to ensure robust security.
- Compare and contrast the use cases for “local-exec” and “remote-exec” provisioners in Terraform. When would you opt for one provisioner over the other?
- Describe the process of creating a custom provider in Terraform for an API or service that is not natively supported by the platform.
- What is the purpose of the Terraform “backend,” and how does it impact state management? Discuss the distinctions between various backend types, including local, remote, S3, and Consul.
- In a scenario where your Terraform configuration spans multiple cloud providers, how would you guarantee consistency, reliability, and minimal downtime during deployments across all providers?
Tips for terraform commands for technical interviews
In Terraform technical interviews, having a strong grasp of core commands like terraform init, terraform plan, terraform apply, and terraform destroy is essential.
Practical experience, knowledge of state management, and adept use of modules are crucial. Understanding secret management, version control integration, error handling, and troubleshooting are also important.
Familiarity with backend configurations and demonstrating multi-cloud capabilities should be done with caution. Effective communication and willingness to ask questions when needed are key to success. Being well-prepared and confident will enable you to excel in Terraform interviews.
Additional Resources
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Conclusion
Terraform is an infrastructure as code (IaC) tool that allows users to define resources through configuration files for consistent infrastructure management. It supports various components, provides versioning, reusability, and automation.
In technical interviews, candidates should know essential Terraform commands, handle state management, and demonstrate module usage. They should understand secrets management, version control, error handling, and multi-cloud scenarios with effective communication. Confidence and preparation are key to success in Terraform interviews.