Scalability
The ability of a system to handle increased load without compromising performance.
Description
Scalability in the context of AWS (Amazon Web Services) refers to the capability of cloud infrastructure to adjust resources automatically based on demand. This can occur either vertically (adding more power to existing machines) or horizontally (adding more machines to distribute the load). AWS offers various services like Amazon EC2, which allows users to scale up or down based on workload fluctuations. This flexibility enables businesses to optimize costs since they only pay for what they use, avoiding the need to invest in physical hardware that may remain underutilized. Additionally, AWS services such as Elastic Load Balancing and Auto Scaling facilitate automatic resource allocation and distribution, ensuring that applications remain responsive even during peak usage times. For instance, during a large event or sale, a retailer can quickly scale their resources to handle increased traffic and then scale down afterward, ensuring efficient resource use without sacrificing performance.
Examples
- Netflix uses AWS to dynamically scale their server capacity based on viewer demand, ensuring seamless streaming even during high-traffic periods.
- Airbnb scales its infrastructure on AWS to accommodate user traffic spikes during major events in cities, providing a reliable experience for users.
Additional Information
- AWS provides tools such as CloudWatch for monitoring resource utilization and scaling triggers based on real-time data.
- Understanding scalability helps businesses plan their cloud architecture effectively to handle growth and unexpected demand spikes.