How Vantage Uses Cross-Account IAM Roles to Securely Connect to Customer AWS Accounts

Vantage outlines its secure method for connecting to customer AWS accounts using Cross-Account IAM Roles, enhancing security and efficiency over initial methods that required customers to create an IAM User with access keys. This approach involves creating a role in the customer's AWS account with specific permissions, allowing Vantage to assume the role temporarily, thereby providing secure, manageable access that can be easily revoked by the customer. The process also incorporates an External ID to prevent unauthorized access through the "confused deputy problem," ensuring that only valid connections are made. Vantage emphasizes maintaining a seamless developer experience by automating much of the setup process with AWS CloudFormation and SNS Custom Resources, facilitating a simple onboarding experience. The company shares its implementation to promote best practices in the industry and plans to discuss further enhancements for larger customers in future communications.