Overview:
A Virtual Machine (VM) is a software-based computer that operates on actual servers in a data center and is used in cloud computing. To operate websites, apps, or other programs remotely, you can construct and manage virtual machines (VMs) with cloud providers like Amazon Web Services (AWS). Launching a virtual machine (VM), stopping or starting it, ending it when it’s no longer needed, and keeping an eye on its performance to make sure everything functions properly are all part of managing virtual machines.
Following are the steps:
1. Setting up a virtual computer
You can use the AWS Command Line Interface (CLI), which allows you to write commands to control your cloud resources, or the AWS Management Console, a web-based interface, to build a virtual machine (VM) on Amazon Web Services (AWS).
When building a virtual machine, you must decide:
- The operating system and pre-installed applications that your virtual machine (VM) will have are determined by an Amazon Machine Image (AMI), which functions similarly to a template.
The type of instance determines the power of your virtual machine (memory, CPU, etc.). - A key pair is utilized for secure access, ensuring that only you are able to access the virtual machine.
Additionally, you choose the region in which you would like your virtual computer to be hosted.
2. Virtual Machine Startup and Stop
You can start the virtual machine (VM) whenever you need to and shut it down when you’re finished.
When a virtual machine is started, it becomes operational and prepared to run programs or receive users.
A VM can be safely shut down by stopping it. While the CPU is off, you won’t be billed, but the data is still kept.
When the virtual machine isn’t always needed, these steps help you manage your resources and save money.
3. Putting a Virtual Machine to Sleep
You can end a virtual machine (VM) if you’re done using it and no longer require it. When a virtual machine is terminated, its resources are permanently erased. Avoiding additional fees is crucial, particularly if you’re on a premium plan.
Note: Once a VM is terminated, it cannot be recovered. So just make sure to back up any important data before terminating.
4. Keep an eye on the virtual machine Making use of AWS CloudWatch
CloudWatch is a tool that AWS offers to ensure that your virtual machine is operating efficiently. It aids in keeping an eye on your virtual machine’s performance and health.
You can monitor things such as:
- CPU use — to determine the machine’s level of effort.
- Memory and disk use – To see if there is a memory or space shortage.
- Traffic Network — To determine the volume of data being transferred and received, look at network traffic.