Lambda
AWS Lambda is a cloud service that lets companies run computer programs without managing servers. Think of it like a utility service - you only pay for what you use, similar to how you pay for electricity. Instead of keeping computers running all the time, Lambda automatically starts up when needed and shuts down when done. This makes it very cost-effective for businesses. It's part of what people call "serverless computing," which doesn't actually mean there are no servers - it just means that Amazon handles all the server management behind the scenes, so companies can focus on their actual work.
Examples in Resumes
Developed cost-efficient solutions using Lambda functions to process customer data
Migrated traditional server applications to AWS Lambda to reduce operational costs
Built serverless applications with Lambda that handled millions of daily requests
Typical job title: "Lambda Developers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Lambda Developers
Online Communities
Learning Resources
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you design a system to handle millions of events using Lambda?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should discuss managing costs, setting up automatic scaling, ensuring reliability, and handling potential errors. They should mention ways to monitor performance and optimize resource usage.
Q: How would you manage security in a Lambda-based application?
Expected Answer: Should explain about controlling access to resources, protecting sensitive data, and following security best practices. They should mention how to safely handle user data and prevent unauthorized access.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the main benefits and limitations of Lambda?
Expected Answer: Should discuss automatic scaling, pay-per-use pricing, and not having to manage servers. Should also mention time limits, memory constraints, and when Lambda might not be the best choice.
Q: How do you monitor and troubleshoot Lambda functions?
Expected Answer: Should explain how to track function performance, find and fix errors, and use tools like CloudWatch to understand what's happening with their functions.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is a Lambda function and when would you use it?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that Lambda functions are small programs that run in response to events, like when someone uploads a file or visits a website, and automatically handle the technical details.
Q: How do you test Lambda functions?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of basic testing methods, like running functions locally and using test events in the AWS console to verify their code works correctly.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic Lambda function creation and deployment
- Simple event handling
- Understanding of cloud basics
- Basic troubleshooting
Mid (2-4 years)
- Integration with other AWS services
- Performance optimization
- Error handling and monitoring
- Cost optimization
Senior (4+ years)
- Complex serverless architecture design
- Security best practices
- Large-scale system optimization
- Team leadership and mentoring
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic cloud computing concepts
- No experience with any programming languages
- Unable to explain simple scenarios where Lambda would be useful
- No knowledge of basic security practices
- No experience with monitoring or troubleshooting
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