# Quickstart

Welcome to the setup journey of **File Deduplication with ownCloud and AWS**. This chapter covers everything you need to install before diving into the core configuration steps.

Follow these instructions to prepare your environment and ensure smooth deployment of the project.

### Prerequisites

* A valid **AWS account**
* A working **internet connection**
* Basic knowledge of the **AWS Console**, **terminal**, and **SSH**

***

### Tools to Install Locally

#### AWS CLI (v2 or higher)

* Used to interact with AWS services via command line.
* Install : [Link](https://docs.aws.amazon.com/cli/latest/userguide/install-cliv2.html)

```bash
aws --version
```

#### Python 3.9+

* Required for writing Lambda functions and basic scripting.
* Verify: 

```bash
python3 --version
```

#### Git

* Used to clone any repositories or version your Lambda code.
* Install : [Link](https://git-scm.com/downloads)

#### Postman (for API Testing)

* We'll use Postman to test Lambda API integrations before wiring up ownCloud.
* Download: [Link](https://www.postman.com/downloads/)

#### SSH Client

* Required to connect to your EC2 instance.
  * For Windows: Use **PuTTY** or WSL/PowerShell
  * For macOS/Linux: Terminal is built-in

***

### Set Up AWS Credentials (for CLI) - Optional 

After installing the AWS CLI, configure your credentials:

```bash
aws configure
```

> Provide your:
>
> * AWS Access Key ID
> * AWS Secret Access Key
> * Default region (e.g., `us-east-1`)
> * Output format (leave default as `json`)

{% hint style="info" %}
Once you're done with these steps, you're ready to move on to **launching your EC2 instance** in the next chapter.
{% endhint %}