EC2 Instance Type Optimization

Opportunity Name: EC2 Instance Type Optimization Finder

AWS Resource Type: EC2 instance

Opportunity Description:
This Finder identifies EC2 instances that can be retyped to more cost-effective instance families based on actual workload characteristics. By analyzing CPU and memory utilization over time, it recommends switching to better-suited instances—like compute-optimized, memory-optimized, or newer generation types (e.g., transitioning from m5 to m6g)—without compromising performance.

CloudFix leverages these insights to help customers reduce EC2 costs and improve performance efficiency with minimal effort.

Criteria for identifying the opportunity:

• Instance has consistent CPU or memory utilization that suggests it would be better served by a different instance family or generation.
• CPU and memory metrics are retrieved from CloudWatch.
• The recommendation is validated using AWS Compute Optimizer insights when available.
• Spot instances, burstable T-series instances, and nano/micro instances are excluded due to volatility or unsuitability for long-term cost modeling.
• Finder avoids suggesting retypes to instances with higher hourly costs unless performance justification is significant.

Potential Savings (if known):
Savings vary depending on the current and recommended instance type. Typical savings come from:

• Moving from older generation instance types (e.g., m5 to m6g or m7g).
• Rightsizing based on overprovisioned resources.
• Transitioning to Graviton-based instances with up to 40% cost-performance improvement.

What happens when the Fixer is executed?
This Finder does not have an automatic Fixer. The instance type retyping must be performed manually by:

1. Stopping the instance.
2. Changing the instance type via the EC2 console or AWS CLI.
3. Restarting the instance.

CloudFix provides the recommended instance type and justification, allowing customers or CloudFix Professional Services to handle the change.

Is it possible to roll back once CloudFix implements the fixer?
Yes. You can revert to the original instance type by repeating the retyping process manually.

Can CloudFix implement the fix automatically once I accept the recommendation?
No. This is a manually executed fix.

Does this fix require downtime?
Yes. Instance retyping requires a stop/start cycle, which results in downtime. Plan changes during maintenance windows to minimize impact.

Additional Resources:

• Changing Instance Type in EC2
• AWS Compute Optimizer