Simple definition
Infrastructure as Code provisions and manages computing resources through versioned configuration rather than manual changes.
Purpose and use
IaC, Infrastructure as Code, describes resources and configuration in versioned files to make management more repeatable.
How does it work?
Tools compare or apply desired state through the relevant platforms' APIs and mechanisms.
Example and verification
Before applying changes, inspect proposed creation, modification and destruction and verify the selected environment and identity.
Points to watch
A versioned file guarantees neither drift-free infrastructure nor reversible changes. State, secrets and manual modifications still require control.
In short
IaC supports review and automation; change validation and data protection remain essential.