OptScaler: A Collaborative Framework for Robust Autoscaling in the Cloud

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Abstract

Autoscaling is a critical mechanism in cloud computing, enabling the autonomous adjustment of computing resources in response to dynamic workloads. This is particularly valuable for co-located, long-running applications with diverse workload patterns. The primary objective of autoscaling is to regulate resource utilization at a desired level, effectively balancing the need for resource optimization with the fulfillment of Service Level Objectives (SLOs). Many existing proactive autoscaling frameworks may encounter prediction deviations arising from the frequent fluctuations of cloud workloads. Reactive frameworks, on the other hand, rely on real-time system feedback, but their hysteretic nature could lead to violations of stringent SLOs. Hybrid frameworks, while prevalent, often feature independently functioning proactive and reactive modules, potentially leading to incompatibility and undermining the overall decision-making efficacy. In addressing these challenges, we propose OptScaler, a collaborative autoscaling framework that integrates proactive and reactive modules through an optimization module. The proactive module delivers reliable future workload predictions to the optimization module, while the reactive module offers a self-tuning estimator for real-time updates. By embedding a Model Predictive Control (MPC) mechanism and chance constraints into the optimization module, we further enhance its robustness. Numerical results have demonstrated the superiority of our workload prediction model and the collaborative framework, leading to over a 36% reduction in SLO violations compared to prevalent reactive, proactive, or hybrid auto-scalers. Notably, OptScaler has been successfully deployed at Alipay, providing autoscaling support for the world-leading payment platform.