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Cloud Compute

Last updated on Sep 26, 2024

Cloud Compute - Getting Started

Cloud compute refers to the use of remote computing resources delivered over the internet, such as virtual machines (VMs) or containers, provided by cloud service providers. These resources can be configured and managed remotely, allowing users to run applications, store data, and perform computing tasks without having to invest in and maintain their own physical infrastructure. Cloud compute offers scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness, as users can pay for only the resources they need and easily adjust their computing capacity as requirements change.

Deploy a Compute Instance

  1. Login to the Web Portal with a valid American Cloud account

  2. On the left navigation column choose 'Cloud Compute'

  3. In Manage Instance select 'Create An Instance'

  4. In the Create New Instance popup select the desired project from the drop down or create a new project

  5. Fill out the provided creation form which allows for full customization of the new Instance. The following fields are available:

    Location

    This field provides the ability to choose which geographic region the instance will reside.

    Network

    American Cloud provides two networking options Elastic Cloud or a VPC.

    For more information about Elastic/VPC networks, Click Here.

    Server Image

    In this field select the desired Image or marketplace Apps

    For more information on marketplace apps, Click Here.

    Server Size

    Select from four prebuilt size configurations or specify size

    Personalize Instance

    This section allows personalization of an instance with options to add a startup script, add a new ssh key, or generate a new SSH key.

    When using the 'Genarate New SSH Key' toggle, ensure to select the key once it's genarated and select 'Add New SSH Key'.

    More support adding and using startup scripts coming soon!

    For more support generating or adding an SSH key, Click Here.

    Hostname & Label

    • This field allows for a name to be assigned to the to the instance. A unique name is suggested in order to easily differentiate between instances

    Billing Method & Coupon

    • Determine the method of billing between hourly or monthly. If a coupon has been redeemed ensure to select it here for applications

    Review & Deploy

    • Once all fields are filled in correct select 'Review and Deploy'

  6. Review selections and cost in the Cost Breakdown window and select 'Deploy'

Note
The first instance may take up to a minute to deploy.

  • Following the successful creation, a redirection to server information will occur

Managing Instances

Instance Dashboard

The instances dashboards allows for certain controls over the instances. Navigate to the instance dashboard section.

  1. From the 'Home Screen' on the left navigation column choose 'Cloud Compute'

  2. Identify the instance to manage, each instance has it's own controls located to the right

  • Each toggle switch has an action described below

Console

This toggle provides the ability to console into the instances using user name and password

Power

  • The power toggle allows for powering on/off the respective instances.

Reboot Server

  • Provides the option of power cycling the respective instance

Reinstall Server

  • This function of complete reset of selected instance

Note
When resetting an instance all unsaved data will be lost

Destroy Server

  • The destroy toggle will permanently delete the selected VM

Specific Instance Management

Instance management provideds detailed overview and settings of the each individual instance. Navigate to an instance using the following steps.

  1. On the navigation panel to the left select 'Cloud Compute'

  2. On the Manage Instance page select the instance to manage

  • Inside the instance are Overview, Usage, Settings, Snapshots, and SSH Keys. Below each section is broken down.

Overview

  • This section provides a detailed view of the instance. Most importantly, the IP address, username, and default password used to SSH into the instance. Username and password are configured upon initial build but can be changed afterward.

Usage

  • In usage a breakdown of monthly usage is provided in numerical values as well graphical values. Graphs provide information on CPU Usage, CPU Load, Memory Usage, Network Interface, and Disk Operations.

Settings

  • Basic configurations are available inside the settings settions. Prior to executing any of these changes ensure you identify and read the warning banners. Several of the changes require an instance to be in a stopped state and may have impacts on data stored.

For more information on Firewalls and Port Forwarding Rules, Click Here.

Snapshots

  • Snapshots are complete images of a drive's data at a specific moment, allowing for data recovery, rollback, or backup. They capture the drive's entire contents, including files, folders, and system settings.

  • When naming snapshots use naming conventions that are easily tracked and organized.

SSH Keys

  • Keys applied to the instance will be listed under this section

For more information on adding/using SSH Keys, Click Here.