Custom Endpoints with Amazon RDS

1. Introduction

Amazon RDS (Relational Database Service) provides a managed relational database solution. Custom endpoints allow you to create a set of database instances that can be accessed through a unified endpoint, simplifying your application architecture.

2. Key Concepts

2.1 What are Custom Endpoints?

Custom endpoints in Amazon RDS allow you to define a logical endpoint that can span multiple database instances. This is particularly useful for load balancing and failover scenarios.

2.2 Benefits

Improved application availability
Load distribution across multiple instances
Simplified database management

3. Creating Custom Endpoints

To create a custom endpoint in Amazon RDS, follow these steps:

Open the Amazon RDS console.
Select Databases from the navigation pane.
Select the database cluster you want to create a custom endpoint for.
Choose the Endpoints tab.
Click on Create custom endpoint.
Provide a name for your custom endpoint.
Select the instances to include in this custom endpoint.
Review your settings and click Create.

Note: You can only create custom endpoints for Amazon RDS clusters (not standalone instances).

4. Best Practices

Monitor the performance of your instances and endpoints regularly.
Utilize Amazon CloudWatch for alerts on endpoint performance.
Consider traffic patterns when choosing instances for your custom endpoints.

5. FAQ

What is the maximum number of databases that can be associated with a custom endpoint?

You can associate up to 5 database instances with a single custom endpoint.

Can I change the instances associated with a custom endpoint?

Yes, you can modify the custom endpoint to add or remove instances as needed.

Are custom endpoints available for all RDS database engines?

Custom endpoints are currently supported for RDS instances that are part of a cluster, such as Amazon Aurora.

6. Flowchart of Custom Endpoint Creation


    graph TD;
        A[Start] --> B[Open Amazon RDS Console];
        B --> C[Select Databases];
        C --> D[Choose Database Cluster];
        D --> E[Go to Endpoints Tab];
        E --> F[Click Create Custom Endpoint];
        F --> G[Provide Name and Select Instances];
        G --> H[Review Settings];
        H --> I[Click Create];
        I --> J[End];