Idle EC2 instance

An EC2 instance with very low CPU utilization that can be stopped or terminated.

Last updated July 3, 2026

What triggers this finding

A running EC2 instance whose average CPU utilization is below 5% over the last 30 days (from CloudWatch metrics).

Typical fix

Stop or terminate the instance if it is no longer needed. On paid plans, Parsivex generates AWS CLI scripts to stop or terminate safely — see Remediation script safety.

Example savings

Often 100% of the instance hourly cost — typically $10–$500+/month depending on instance type.

See also: Severity and savings estimates for how Parsivex calculates figures on your report.

Related articles

Finding type glossary

Plain-English definitions for all 13 Parsivex waste finding types, grouped by AWS category.

Running scripts safely

How to review warnings, use dry-run commands, test in non-production, and avoid destructive mistakes — especially with S3 lifecycle scripts.

Severity and savings estimates

How Parsivex prioritizes findings, calculates monthly savings figures, and why estimates are not guarantees.