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CCSP Practice Question: A cloud architect is designing a cost-optimized…
A cloud architect is designing a cost-optimized architecture for a batch processing job that runs once per day. The job requires high compute capacity for approximately 5 hours. Which cloud service model is most suitable?
⚠ Common exam trap
ISC2 often tests the misconception that spot instances are unreliable and unsuitable for any production workload, but the trap here is that they are perfectly appropriate for fault-tolerant, short-lived batch jobs where cost optimization is the primary goal.
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
✓
Spot instances
Spot instances are the most suitable for this batch processing job because they offer significant cost savings (up to 90% compared to on-demand) and are ideal for fault-tolerant, stateless workloads that can handle interruptions. The job runs once per day for only 5 hours, so it can easily be designed to checkpoint progress and resume if a spot instance is reclaimed, making the cost-optimized choice clear.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Reserved instances
Why it's wrong here
Require commitment for 1-3 years, not suitable for short daily jobs.
- ✗
On-demand instances
Why it's wrong here
More expensive than spot instances for the same compute duration.
- ✓
Spot instances
Why this is correct
Correct: Cost-effective for fault-tolerant, short-lived workloads.
- ✗
Dedicated hosts
Why it's wrong here
Expensive and unnecessary for batch jobs.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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