Serverless Developer Guide
Getting started with serverless applications
Core service starters will quickly explain the value and technical fundamentals of each service. Each 
starter will also mention advanced topics, so you can start with the essentials, but be aware of 
capabilities to dive into when you need them.
Starters are short reads (less than 2,300 words; 10-15 min) that connect concepts and practical 
hands-on use.
Topics
• Get started with IAM
• Get started with Lambda
• Get started with API Gateway
• Get started with DynamoDB
• Learn using a workshop
Get started with IAM
Interactions with AWS services and resources by developers and entities require:
• Authentication: proof that the entity requesting access is who they claim to be
• Authorization: actions that are allowed or denied
What is Identity and Access Management?
AWS provides and uses a service called Identity and Access Management (IAM) for authentication 
and authorization. IAM is used to manage developer accounts and secure the interaction between 
services and resources.
Warning
Security is an important, complex, and broad topic. Large organizations generally have 
speciﬁc operational procedures that developers need to follow. This guide will explain only 
essential concepts necessary to get started with AWS services. If in doubt, consult your IT 
department or the oﬃcial security documentation.
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