What level of AWS expertise do I need for basic business operations like hosting a website and storing files?
For basic needs like hosting a simple website and file storage, you need someone with beginner to intermediate AWS skills. They should understand EC2 for web hosting, S3 for file storage, and basic security configurations. This level of work typically requires 2-6 months of AWS experience.
How can I tell if a candidate actually knows AWS well versus just having it on their resume?
Ask them to walk through a specific architecture they've built, including why they chose certain services and how they handled security and costs. Real AWS experts can explain trade-offs between different approaches and share specific challenges they've solved. Look for AWS certifications combined with hands-on project examples.
Can AWS handle our entire IT infrastructure, or are there things it can't do?
AWS can handle virtually all IT infrastructure needs including servers, databases, networking, and specialized services like AI/ML. However, it can't replace the need for skilled people to architect, configure, and maintain your systems. Some legacy applications may also require significant modification to work optimally in the cloud.
How well does AWS work with our existing tools like Office 365, Salesforce, or our accounting software?
AWS integrates well with most modern business tools through APIs and pre-built connectors. Popular integrations include Office 365, Salesforce, QuickBooks, and thousands of other applications. However, integration complexity varies, and you'll want an AWS expert who understands both systems to ensure smooth data flow.
How long does it typically take to migrate our systems to AWS or set up new infrastructure?
Simple setups like hosting a website can be done in days, while complex enterprise migrations often take 3-12 months. A typical small business migration (email, file storage, basic applications) usually takes 4-8 weeks. Timeline depends heavily on your current setup complexity and how much testing is required.
After our AWS setup is complete, how much ongoing maintenance and support will we need?
AWS infrastructure requires ongoing monitoring, security updates, cost optimization, and scaling adjustments. Plan for at least 10-20 hours per month for basic maintenance, more for complex setups. Many businesses opt for managed services or retain an AWS expert on a part-time basis rather than trying to handle everything in-house.
