CV0-004 Cloud Architecture and Design Practice Question
A cloud architect is designing a cost-optimized architecture for a batch processing workload that runs every hour for 10 minutes. The workload is fault-tolerant and can be interrupted. Which TWO pricing models should the architect consider to minimize costs? (Select TWO.)
⚠ Common exam trap
CompTIA often tests the misconception that reserved instances or savings plans are always cheaper for any recurring workload, but the trap here is that these require long-term commitments and are cost-inefficient for short-duration, interruptible batch jobs where spot instances provide greater savings without upfront risk.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
On-demand instances
On-demand instances (C) are correct because they allow the architect to pay only for the compute capacity used per hour, with no upfront commitment, which is ideal for a short-duration (10-minute) batch workload that runs every hour. Spot instances (D) are correct because the workload is fault-tolerant and can be interrupted, enabling the use of spare cloud capacity at significantly discounted rates (often 60-90% off on-demand), further minimizing costs for this interruptible batch processing task.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Dedicated hosts
Why it's wrong here
Dedicated hosts are expensive and not needed.
- ✗
Savings plans
Why it's wrong here
Savings plans require commitment, similar to reserved instances.
- ✓
On-demand instances
Why this is correct
On-demand offers no commitment and can be used when spot instances are not available, but it's more expensive.
- ✓
Spot instances
Why this is correct
Spot instances are very cheap and suitable for interruptible workloads.
- ✗
Reserved instances
Why it's wrong here
Reserved instances require 1- or 3-year commitment; not suitable for short, variable workloads.
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