- Amazon EC2 offers instances optimized for compute, memory, and storage.
- The nomenclature of instances indicates family, generation and special characteristics.
- Pricing models include on-demand, reserved, and spot instances.
- Selecting the right instance helps optimize costs and performance in the cloud.
Amazon EC2 offers a wide variety of instances optimized for different use cases. From general workloads to compute- or storage-intensive applications, choosing the right instance can make a difference in performance and costs. For more information on instance types and their use, see our article on how view groups work.
In this detailed guide we will explore the different EC2 instance types, their classification, and how to choose the most appropriate option for each need. We'll also explain the AWS naming system and available pricing options.
What is an Amazon EC2 instance?
An EC2 instance is a virtual server in the cloud that allows you to run applications without having to invest in hardware Physical. AWS offers multiple configuration options to suit different computing, storage, and networking requirements. If you'd like to learn more about using servers, visit our article on UML and its application in software.
Amazon EC2 Instance Types
EC2 instances are divided into five main categories, each designed for specific use cases:
- General use instances: They balance CPU, memory, and storage. Example: M5, T3.
- Optimized for computing: Designed for CPU-intensive workloads. Example: C5.
- Optimized for memory: Ideal for databases and in-memory analysis. Example: R5.
- Optimized for storage: Designed for large volumes of data. Example: I3.
- Accelerated computing: They use GPUs and FPGAs for graphics processing or machine learning. Examples: P4, G5.
Classification and naming of EC2 instances
AWS uses a naming system consisting of a letter indicating the family, a number representing the generation, and additional letters that specify special characteristics. For example, in r5d.xlarge:
- R: Family of memory-optimized instances.
- 5: Fifth generation of the family.
- d: Includes storage SSD .
- xlarge: Instance size.
How to choose the best EC2 instance
To select the most appropriate instance, consider the following factors:
- CPU requirements: If you need high processing power, choose an instance from the C family.
- Memory: For in-memory databases and applications, the R series is ideal.
- Storage: If you need to read and write data quickly, opt for the I family.
- Cost optimization: Consider reserved and spot instance options to save money, as explained in our article on common AWS errors.
Pricing Options on Amazon EC2
AWS offers different pricing models to suit your needs and budget:
- On-demand instances: You pay for There that you use them.
- Reserved Instances: 1 or 3 year contract with discounts.
- Spot instances: Unused capacity with up to 90% discount.
Choosing the right EC2 instance is key to optimise the performance and costs on AWS. By understanding the different instance types and their features, you'll be able to make better decisions based on your application's needs.
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