Latest Articles
Some things that I learned over time.
How to run OpenVPN on AWS in 5 minutes
Why running your own OpenVPN server in your AWS account beats commercial VPNs and managed offerings - and how to get one running in about 5 minutes.
How to hire the technical team
How to hire developers and AWS experts when you are not technical yourself - the questions to ask, the answers to expect, and the red flags.
The best serverless database combo on AWS
Why DynamoDB plus S3 is the best serverless database combo on AWS - fast UI data in DynamoDB, cheap bulk data in S3, and you pay only for what you use.
How to understand DynamoDB
DynamoDB explained for SQL people - why records stay small, how to design sort keys like file paths, and how to avoid a shocking AWS bill.
How to organize a project with CloudFormation
How to split a project into multiple CloudFormation stacks - by database, compute, and credentials - so updates never paint you into a corner.
CloudFormation Tips and Tricks
Hard-earned CloudFormation lessons - split big templates, never rename resources, avoid cross-stack references, and always test from scratch.
The Importance of CloudFormation Files
What CloudFormation is and why every AWS project should have it - track infrastructure in Git, deploy identical stacks to any account, save weeks of work.
Should I go all in with Serverless?
Serverless or regular servers? A cost life cycle for products on AWS - start serverless, shift hot paths to EC2, and know when to negotiate discounts.
The benefits of AWS organizations
Why AWS Organizations is worth setting up from day one - one bill, account isolation, and central policies like SCPs. Explained for CEOs, CTOs, and managers.
How to lower EC2 Costs
Cut EC2 costs by up to 72 percent with Savings Plans and Reserved Instances. A plain-English guide for CEOs and CTOs on commitments and flexibility.