1

You create an AMI from scratch (Linux and UNIX only) or based on an existing AMI. This is optional, as you can launch instances of existing AMIs without modifying them. See Creating an AMI.

2

You bundle the AMI and obtain an AMI ID so you can launch as many instances of the AMI as you want. See Bundling an AMI.

3

You launch one or more instances of your AMI. See Launching and Using Instances.

4

You administer and use your instances and you would with any servers.