AWS Resource Type:
Amazon DynamoDB Tables
Opportunity Description:
This Finder provides a recommendation to switch between Provisioned and On-Demand capacity modes for DynamoDB tables. By analyzing recent usage data and comparing the annual cost of the current mode against its alternative, CloudFix helps you determine which mode offers the greatest cost efficiency — without complex simulations or opaque logic.
It’s a fully transparent, auditable optimization that prioritizes simplicity, helping teams trust and act on the findings quickly.
Criteria for identifying the opportunity:
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The DynamoDB table is in an
ACTIVEstate. -
At least 95% CloudWatch metric coverage is available for
ConsumedReadCapacityUnitsandConsumedWriteCapacityUnitsduring the lookback period (default: 30 days). -
The annualized cost difference between the current and alternative mode exceeds a configured minimum savings threshold (e.g., $50).
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Regional pricing for RCU/WCU and per-request units is available via the AWS Price List API.
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Only single-mode tables (Provisioned or On-Demand) are considered — hybrid configurations are excluded.
Potential Savings (Annual Estimate):
Savings vary based on workload patterns and current mode. For example:
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Provisioned to On-Demand: Ideal for tables with highly variable or spiky traffic — often results in 30–70% savings.
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On-Demand to Provisioned: Ideal for consistently high traffic tables — can result in 50–80% savings.
Recommendations include precise projected savings in USD and percentage terms.
What happens when the Fixer is executed?
This Finder is recommendation-only. No automatic changes are made. It provides:
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A side-by-side cost comparison (current vs. alternative mode)
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Annual cost projections
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Graphs comparing observed usage and proposed provisioned capacity
You can use this information to confidently switch modes manually in the AWS Console or via API.
Is it possible to roll back once CloudFix implements the Fixer?
Not applicable. CloudFix does not automatically switch capacity modes. Any changes must be executed manually and can be reversed through AWS-native tools.
Can CloudFix implement the fix automatically once I accept the recommendation?
No. This is a manual process. The Finder provides actionable insights; execution remains in your control.
Does the fix require downtime?
No. Switching between Provisioned and On-Demand capacity modes does not require table downtime but is subject to a 24-hour cooldown period per switch.
Bill Gleeson
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