Enable DynamoDB Table Auto Scaling Rule
This rule ensures that DynamoDB table auto scaling is enabled to optimize performance and cost efficiency.
| Rule | DynamoDB table auto scaling should be enabled |
| Framework | NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) v1.1 |
| Severity | ✔ High |
Rule Description:
DynamoDB table auto scaling should be enabled for NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) v1. Auto scaling allows the DynamoDB table to automatically adjust its capacity to handle fluctuating workloads, ensuring optimal performance and cost efficiency. Enabling auto scaling aligns with the principles of the NIST Cybersecurity Framework by improving resilience and adaptability.
Steps to Enable Auto Scaling for DynamoDB Table:
- 1.Identify the DynamoDB table that needs auto scaling enabled.
- 2.Log in to the AWS Management Console.
- 3.Navigate to the DynamoDB service.
- 4.Select the desired region where the table is located.
- 5.Locate the target table from the list of tables and click on its name.
- 6.In the table details page, choose the "Capacity" tab.
- 7.Scroll down to the "Auto Scaling" section and click on the "Edit" button.
- 8.Enable auto scaling by setting the switch to "On".
- 9.Configure the auto scaling policies based on your desired performance and cost requirements. (Refer to the official AWS documentation for guidance on setting up auto scaling policies)
- 10.Once the policies are defined, click on the "Save" button to apply the changes.
Troubleshooting Steps (if encountered):
If you encounter any issues while enabling auto scaling for a DynamoDB table, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- 1.
Verify IAM Permissions: Ensure that the IAM user or role has the necessary permissions to modify the auto scaling settings for DynamoDB tables. The user/role should have the "dynamodb:UpdateTable" and "application-autoscaling:UpdateScalingPlan" permissions.
- 2.
Verify DynamoDB Limits: Check if the DynamoDB table is within the limits for auto scaling. DynamoDB imposes certain limits on auto scaling, such as the maximum and minimum capacity settings, target tracking policy, and scaling cooldown periods. Ensure that you are within these limits.
- 3.
Check Auto Scaling Service: Ensure that auto scaling is enabled for your AWS account and available in the region where the DynamoDB table resides. If auto scaling is not available, reach out to AWS support for further assistance.
- 4.
Review Table Configuration: Double-check the table configuration, including the provisioned read and write capacity units. Auto scaling can only be enabled on tables that already have provisioned capacity, and it is recommended to adjust the provisioned capacity based on historical usage patterns before enabling auto scaling.
- 5.
Monitor CloudWatch Alarms: If you have configured CloudWatch alarms for your DynamoDB table, review the alarm configurations to ensure they are generating the expected notifications. Incorrect or misconfigured alarms can impact auto scaling operations.
- 6.
Consult AWS Documentation: If further issues persist, consult the official AWS documentation for detailed troubleshooting steps or consider reaching out to AWS Support for assistance specific to your scenario.
Code Snippets (if applicable):
No code snippets are required for enabling auto scaling through the AWS Management Console. However, if you prefer to use the AWS CLI or SDK, refer to the official AWS documentation for relevant code examples and syntax.
Recommended Practice:
Enabling auto scaling for DynamoDB tables is a best practice to ensure optimal performance and cost efficiency. It allows your tables to automatically adapt to varying workloads and fluctuations in demand. Regularly monitor and fine-tune the auto scaling policies based on the performance and usage patterns of your DynamoDB tables to ensure efficient utilization of resources.