Creating a service account in Google Cloud Platform (GCP) involves a few steps. Here's a clear guide:

Step 1: Sign in to Google Cloud Console

• Go to GCP Console

• Select your project or create a new one.

Step 2: Navigate to the IAM & Admin Section

• In the left-hand menu, go to "IAM & Admin" → "Service Accounts".

Step 3: Create the Service Account

1. Click the "Create Service Account" button.

2. Fill in the following:

• Name: A meaningful name (e.g., my-service-account).

• ID: Auto-filled based on the name (can be customized).

• Description: Optional but useful for clarity.

3. Click Create and Continue.

Step 4: Assign Roles

1. Choose the appropriate roles for the service account based on required permissions.For example:

• Viewer (read-only access)

• Editor (read/write access)

• Owner (full control, use with caution)

2. Click Continue.

Step 5: Generate a Key

1. In the Service Accounts list, find your new account.

2. Click the three dots (︙) under "Actions" → Manage keys.

3. Click Add Key → Create new key.

4. Select JSON as the key type.

5. Click Create — the JSON file will download automatically.

|| Store this JSON file securely. This file contains credentials required for authentication.

Step 6: Use the Service Account

• Use the JSON key file when interacting with GCP services via SDKs, CLI tools, or deployment configurations.