Table capacity modes (on-demand vs provisioned) in DynamoDB - Quick Revision & Key Differences

Recall & Review

beginner

What is the on-demand capacity mode in DynamoDB?

On-demand capacity mode lets DynamoDB automatically handle the read and write capacity based on your application's traffic. You don't need to specify capacity units in advance.

beginner

What does provisioned capacity mode mean in DynamoDB?

Provisioned capacity mode means you set the number of reads and writes per second your table can handle. You pay for this capacity whether you use it or not.

intermediate

Which capacity mode is better for unpredictable or spiky workloads?

On-demand capacity mode is better for unpredictable or spiky workloads because it automatically scales to handle sudden traffic changes.

intermediate

What is a key benefit of using provisioned capacity mode?

Provisioned capacity mode can be more cost-effective for steady, predictable workloads because you pay a fixed rate for capacity you plan to use.

advanced

Can you switch between on-demand and provisioned capacity modes in DynamoDB?

Yes, DynamoDB allows switching between on-demand and provisioned capacity modes, but it may take some time and has some limits on frequency.

Which DynamoDB capacity mode automatically adjusts to your application's traffic?

A On-demand

B Provisioned

C Manual

D Reserved

On-demand capacity mode automatically adjusts capacity based on traffic.

In provisioned capacity mode, what do you need to specify?

A Number of indexes

B Table size in GB

C Number of reads and writes per second

D Backup frequency

Provisioned mode requires you to specify read and write capacity units.

Which capacity mode is usually cheaper for steady, predictable workloads?

A Provisioned

B On-demand

C Both cost the same

D Depends on table size

Provisioned mode is often cheaper for steady workloads because you pay a fixed rate.

Can you switch from on-demand to provisioned capacity mode in DynamoDB?

A Yes, anytime without limits

B Yes, but with some limits and delay

C No, once set it cannot be changed

D Only during table creation

Switching is allowed but has some limits and may take time.

What happens if your application traffic exceeds provisioned capacity?

A Data is lost

B Capacity automatically increases

C Table is deleted

D Requests are throttled

Exceeding provisioned capacity causes throttling of requests.

Explain the difference between on-demand and provisioned capacity modes in DynamoDB.

Think about how capacity is managed and billed.

Describe when you would choose on-demand capacity mode over provisioned mode.

Consider workload patterns and cost.