In the context of AWS EC2 instances, what does an instance type determine?

An instance type in AWS EC2 specifies the hardware configuration of the virtual machine, which includes crucial computer specifications such as CPU, memory, and storage capacity. Each instance type is designed for specific workloads, offering varying combinations of CPU power, RAM, and disk performance to optimize application performance. For instance, compute-optimized instances provide higher CPU-to-memory ratios, while memory-optimized instances focus on RAM for applications that require large amounts of memory.

In this way, selecting the appropriate instance type is vital for ensuring that an application has the right resources it needs to function efficiently. It directly affects the way your application performs under load and influences factors like cost and scalability. This choice is foundational in cloud architecture design, especially in environments that demand high availability or performance.

Other options, while relevant in different contexts, do not accurately describe what an instance type determines in AWS EC2. For example, geographical location pertains to the AWS region where the instance is launched, which is separate from the characteristics of the instance itself. Additionally, the range of services available for an instance can be influenced by many factors beyond just the instance type, such as AWS account limits or service availability in a region. Lastly, the type of operating system that can be installed is a separate consideration