Project Paper

 

Abdelrahman Abdelkhalek

Software Analysis – Amazon

 

1. What CPUs are used? What type of storage and how much? Provide graphics.

First: Processing Units (CPUs)

Amazon (AWS) uses a variety of CPUs to power its servers and cloud services, the most important of which are:

Intel Xeon: Used in a large number of servers to deliver powerful performance for intensive computing operations.

ARM-based Graviton by Amazon: Offers energy efficiency and lower costs and is increasingly used in many modern services such as EC2.

AMD EPYC: Offers high performance at lower costs and is used to provide flexible options for users.

Second: Storage Type and Capacity

Amazon uses several types of storage in its data centers, the most prominent of which are: Amazon S3 (Object Storage): Dedicated to storing files and large data sets such as images and videos. Contains over 200 trillion data items, with a total capacity estimated in exabytes.

Amazon EBS (Block Storage): Used to store databases and applications associated with EC2 instances.

Storage capacity per block is up to 64 TB.

Amazon EFS (File Storage): Enables file sharing across multiple servers.

Additional Notes: Amazon uses backup, replication, and geo-distributed data technologies to ensure security and reliability.

Processing units are distributed as needed, and the Graviton processor is currently the fastest growing option.

 

Third: Provide Graphics

CPU Usage Distribution in Amazon AWS Infrastructure

 

2. What is software? What types of operating systems does your company use to support the processes you are studying? What is application software? What are some vertical and horizontal and customized applications that your company uses? Provide an example or screenshot. Is the software effective?

Software is a set of commands and instructions used to operate computers and perform specific tasks. It is an essential component of any company's technological infrastructure. Software is divided into two main types: system software, such as operating systems, and application software, which is used to perform daily tasks. At Amazon, software is a critical factor that enables the company to manage its complex operations efficiently and accurately

Amazon uses multiple operating systems to support various operations within the company. One of the most important of these systems is Linux, which is widely used in AWS (Amazon Web Services) services due to its security, stability, and ability to handle massive amounts of data. Windows is used on desktop computers used by employees in administrative departments. Android is also used on mobile devices such as delivery devices or scanners in warehouses to track shipments and manage inventory. These systems support the changing work environment and help integrate...

Application software at Amazon includes a wide range of tools used in both internal and external aspects of the company. These programs include customer relationship management systems, data analytics systems, sales platforms, and direct customer service programs. Amazon relies on a mix of vertical, horizontal, and custom applications.  Vertical applications are those developed specifically for a particular sector, such as warehouse and inventory management systems (WMS), which are designed to fit the work environment within Amazon's warehouses. Horizontal applications are those used by all types of businesses, such as Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and Slack, which are used for office management and internal communication. Amazon also develops its own custom software, such as the A9 search engine, artificial intelligence systems for product recommendations, and software specifically for managing warehouse robots, such as Kiva robots, which are among the most powerful...

 

Kiva robots are powered by intelligent, custom software that enables them to navigate within warehouses and transfer shelves to employees, instead of having employees search for products, significantly reducing time and effort. This software connects directly to order management systems to provide a super-fast delivery experience for customers.

The software used by Amazon is highly effective, helping to automate processes, reduce human error, and improve overall business efficiency. These systems also enable Amazon to remain at the forefront of e-commerce companies worldwide in terms of speed, accuracy, and customer service. Software is not just an operational tool at Amazon; it is the core of its success and sustainability.

Comparison Table: Types of Applications Used by Amazon

The following table summarizes the differences between vertical, horizontal, and customized applications used by Amazon:

Type of Application	Definition	Examples from Amazon	Primary Purpose
Vertical Applications	Applications designed for specific industries or tasks.	WMS (Warehouse Management System) used in fulfillment centers.	Enhance inventory and logistics operations.
Horizontal Applications	General-purpose applications used across various industries.	Microsoft Office 365, Slack, Zoom.	Communication, document creation, and collaboration.
Customized Applications	Applications developed in-house to meet specific company needs.	A9 Search Engine, Amazon Robotics Software, Recommendation System.	Operational excellence and personalized customer experience.