AWS lightsail instance crashing / rebooting

Question

Hi all,

I am testing AWS lightsail as a platform to run lengthy script optimisations (sever 2GB RAM, 60GB SSD, 2 CPU). 
However relatively frequently the instance crashes or reboots and I loose all of the progress on the optimisation. 
Looking at the task manager, I am using almost all of the available processing power but presumably this should just adjust the optimisation to prevent the hardware from crashing?

Does anyone know why this would be happening? Is it mandatory for me to log in regularly to keep the instance active? 
I am getting the impression that the VPS service provided by AWS is not very stable or reliable. Which is surprising given the reputation of AWS. 
Are there setting that I need to adjust?

Thank you,

Riku_Kobayashi · Accepted Answer

Hello.

Lightsail bursts to temporarily increase processing performance when CPU usage is high.  
To burst, use something called burst credits.  
I predict that when the burst credits are used up, Lightsail will stop because the CPU will be limited to the baseline throughput.  
https://lightsail.aws.amazon.com/ls/docs/en_us/articles/amazon-lightsail-viewing-instance-burst-capacity

You may want to check CPU usage and burst credits metrics when Lightsail is crashing.  
Also, I thought that Lightsail was not very suitable for running large scripts.  
For example, if you are accustomed to using containers, you may be able to use ECS or AWS Batch.  
https://docs.aws.amazon.com/AmazonECS/latest/developerguide/Welcome.html  
https://docs.aws.amazon.com/batch/latest/userguide/what-is-batch.html

AWS-Andy · Answer

It sounds like you are exceeding the sustainable CPU load for prolonged periods of time, leading to throttling. Please check this guidance on viewing your instance burst capacity. https://lightsail.aws.amazon.com/ls/docs/en_us/articles/amazon-lightsail-viewing-instance-burst-capacity

Once you verify your usage vs. burst capacity you can consider your options.

CptBlueLemon · Answer

Hi both,

Thank you for your answers I will take a look at the CPU usage and proceed accordingly.

Thanks,

Sacha

AWS lightsail instance crashing / rebooting

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