SAP-C02 Question 521
Single answerA company runs a batch data processing application in a VPC on Amazon EC2. The application processes large datasets and is executed once per day. The workload can tolerate interruptions of up to 2 hours, and the company needs to minimize costs while ensuring processing is completed each day. What is the MOST cost-effective architectural solution?
- A
Use Reserved Instances for all EC2 instances to guarantee capacity and reduce costs.
- B
Use Spot Instances with a defined interruption strategy and configure an Auto Scaling group to scale based on the application’s demand.
- C
Use On-Demand Instances to ensure the application runs without interruptions.
- D
Use Savings Plans for all EC2 instances to save costs while providing flexibility.
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Spot Instances are the most cost-effective option for batch processing workloads that can tolerate interruptions. By using an Auto Scaling group, the company can handle potential interruptions by provisioning additional Spot Instances to ensure the processing completes within the required time frame. This approach minimizes costs while meeting the application’s needs, making it the best architectural choice.
- A. Incorrect.
Reserved Instances are cost-effective for predictable, consistent workloads, but this batch processing application does not require constant availability and can tolerate interruptions. Spot Instances would be a better choice for cost savings in this case.
- B. Correct.
Spot Instances are highly cost-effective for batch processing workloads that can tolerate interruptions. By using an Auto Scaling group, the application can automatically scale based on demand, ensuring the workload completes within the required time frame.
- C. Incorrect.
On-Demand Instances provide flexibility and no commitment but are more expensive compared to Spot Instances. Since the workload can tolerate interruptions, Spot Instances are a better choice for cost savings.
- D. Incorrect.
Savings Plans offer cost savings for consistent usage patterns but are not as cost-effective as Spot Instances for this type of batch processing workload that can tolerate interruptions.