The correct answer is to optimize the function code and increase the memory allocation. Increasing memory from 128 MB not only provides more RAM but also proportionally increases CPU and network throughput, which can dramatically reduce execution time and resolve a Lambda timeout without changing the timeout setting itself. Code optimization, such as removing unnecessary loops, reducing package size, or using asynchronous processing, directly tackles the root cause by lowering the compute needed per invocation. On the AWS Certified Developer Associate DVA-C02 exam, this question tests your understanding that Lambda’s memory-to-CPU ratio is linear, so a memory increase is a performance lever, not just a capacity fix. A common trap is thinking that simply raising the timeout value solves the issue—this only masks the problem and can increase costs. Remember the mnemonic “MOC”: Memory, Optimize, Code—in that order, because more memory often yields the quickest performance gain before you dive into code refactoring.
DVA-C02 Troubleshooting and Optimization Practice Question
This DVA-C02 practice question tests your understanding of troubleshooting and optimization. The scenario asks you to isolate a root cause — eliminate options that address a different problem before choosing. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A developer is troubleshooting an AWS Lambda function that is timing out. The function has a timeout of 5 seconds and is configured with 128 MB of memory. Which TWO of the following are effective ways to resolve the timeout?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Increase the memory allocation to 512 MB.
Option A is correct because increasing memory often also increases CPU, which can improve performance. Option C is correct because optimizing the code can reduce execution time. Option B is wrong because increasing timeout alone may not solve the root cause. Option D is wrong because increasing memory is an alternative to increasing timeout. Option E is wrong because deploying in a VPC adds latency due to ENI creation.
Key principle: NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✓
Increase the memory allocation to 512 MB.
Why this is correct
More memory can improve performance and reduce execution time.
Related concept
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
✗
Decrease the memory allocation to 64 MB.
Why it's wrong here
Less memory would likely slow down the function.
✗
Deploy the function inside a VPC.
Why it's wrong here
VPC deployment adds network latency, potentially worsening the timeout.
✓
Optimize the function code to reduce execution time.
Why this is correct
Code optimization addresses the root cause.
Related concept
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
✗
Increase the function timeout to 10 seconds.
Why it's wrong here
This only masks the problem; the function may still be slow.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: NAT rules depend on direction and matching traffic
NAT is not only about the public address. The inside/outside interface roles and the ACL or rule that matches traffic are just as important.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
NAT questions usually test address translation, overload/PAT behaviour, static mappings and whether the right traffic is being translated. Read the interface direction and address terms carefully.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
PAT allows many inside hosts to share one public address using ports.
Inside local and inside global describe the private and translated addresses.
NAT ACLs identify traffic for translation, not always security filtering.
TExam Day Tips
→Identify inside and outside interfaces first.
→Check whether the scenario needs static NAT, dynamic NAT or PAT.
→Do not confuse NAT matching ACLs with normal packet-filtering intent.
Key takeaway
NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A healthcare organisation deploys an application with a public-facing web tier and a private database tier. The database subnet has no public IP and only accepts connections from the web tier's security group. Questions like this test whether you can design cloud network isolation using VNets/VPCs, subnets, and security group rules.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related DVA-C02 NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
Troubleshooting and Optimization — This question tests Troubleshooting and Optimization — Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Increase the memory allocation to 512 MB. — Option A is correct because increasing memory often also increases CPU, which can improve performance. Option C is correct because optimizing the code can reduce execution time. Option B is wrong because increasing timeout alone may not solve the root cause. Option D is wrong because increasing memory is an alternative to increasing timeout. Option E is wrong because deploying in a VPC adds latency due to ENI creation.
What should I do if I get this DVA-C02 question wrong?
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related DVA-C02 NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
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Question Discussion
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