Static Scaling
Static scaling is a cloud computing and system design concept where resources (such as servers, storage, or compute instances) are pre-provisioned at fixed capacities based on anticipated or peak workloads, rather than dynamically adjusting in real-time. It involves manually or programmatically setting resource limits upfront, which remain constant until explicitly changed by an administrator or automated process. This approach contrasts with dynamic scaling methods that automatically respond to fluctuating demand.
Developers should use static scaling for predictable, stable workloads where performance consistency and cost predictability are prioritized over flexibility, such as in batch processing jobs, scheduled tasks, or legacy applications with minimal traffic variation. It is also suitable for environments with strict compliance or security requirements where dynamic resource changes might introduce risks, or when operating under budget constraints that necessitate fixed infrastructure costs. However, it can lead to over-provisioning (wasted resources) or under-provisioning (performance issues) if demand estimates are inaccurate.