A resource elasticity framework for QoS-aware execution of cloud applications

• A framework for QoS-aware execution of cloud applications is proposed.
• Application behavior with respect to variable workload is analytically modeled.
• Resource demand is computed based on the arrival pattern of user requests and performance requirements.
• Dynamic scalability of cloud applications is ensured while complying with QoS criteria.

Cloud infrastructures consisting of heterogeneous resources are increasingly being utilized for hosting large-scale distributed applications from diverse users with discrete needs. The multifarious cloud applications impose varied demands for computational resources along with multitude of performance implications. Successful hosting of cloud applications necessitates service providers to take into account the heterogeneity existing in the behavior of users, applications and system resources while respecting the user’s agreed Quality of Service (QoS) criteria. In this work, we propose a QoS-Aware Resource Elasticity (QRE) framework that allows service providers to make an assessment of the application behavior and develop mechanisms that enable dynamic scalability of cloud resources hosting the application components. Experimental results conducted on the Amazon EC2 cloud clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach while complying with the agreed QoS attributes of users.