Optimizing SQL Server deployments on Amazon EC2 with AWS Launch Wizard

AWS Launch Wizard is the primary method for SQL Server single instance and high availability (HA) deployments on Amazon EC2. Launch Wizard deployments are based on the AWS Well-Architected Framework, and are optimized for security, reliability, performance efficiency, and cost savings.

Launch Wizard simplifies your SQL Server deployments and also makes it easier to configure SQL Server. Its features include:

• Automated AWS resource selection – Launch Wizard can recommend the optimal instance type based on your virtual CPU (vCPU), memory, and networking requirements. It can also recommend the volume type based on the storage drive and throughput.

• One-click monitoring – Launch Wizard integrates with Amazon CloudWatch Application Insights to set up monitoring for SQL Server HA deployments on AWS. When you select this option, Application Insights automatically sets up relevant metrics, logs, and alarms on CloudWatch, and starts monitoring newly deployed workloads.

• Application resource groups for easy discoverability – Launch Wizard creates a resource group for all AWS resources that were created for your SQL Server application. You can manage, patch, and maintain your SQL Server applications from the AWS Systems Manager console.

Launch Wizard provides you with reusable AWS CloudFormation code templates. These templates can serve as a baseline for your subsequent application deployments. To learn more, see the AWS Launch Wizard overview and user guide.