Guide to Google Cloud's Committed Use Contracts

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Google Cloud Committed Use Contracts are agreements that provide discounted prices on Google Cloud resources in return for committing to continuous usage for a one to three-year term. By opting for these contracts, users can achieve significant cost savings compared to pay-as-you-go pricing models.

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Below are the steps to purchase a Committed Use Contract:

  1. Sign in to Google Cloud Console: Start by signing in to your account on the Google Cloud Console (console.cloud.google.com).

  2. Go to Compute Engine: On the left-hand side menu, navigate to Compute Engine. From there, select VM instances.

  3. Access Committed Use Contracts: Within the VM instances page, you’ll find an option called Committed use contracts. Click on this.

  4. Purchase a Contract: Now you’ll be on the Committed Use Contracts page. Click on the Purchase commitment option.

  5. Configure your Contract: Here, you’ll need to configure your contract based on your specific needs. This includes:

    • Region: Select the region in which you’ll be utilizing the resources. Remember, the contract applies to usage within the chosen region only.
    • Term Length: Choose how long you’ll commit to using the resources – one or three years.
    • Machine Type: Specify the machine type you’ll be using, such as General Purpose, Memory Optimized, or Compute Optimized.
    • vCPUs and Memory: Choose the number of virtual CPUs and the amount of memory that you plan to use.

  6. Review and Purchase: Once you’ve configured your contract, review the details carefully. Make sure that it aligns with your expected usage. Remember, you’re making a commitment for a period of time. When ready, click Purchase.

Remember, Committed Use Contracts are not resizable. This means if your computing needs decrease, you may end up paying for resources you’re not using. As such, it is crucial to consider your long-term requirements carefully before making a commitment.

You also have the option to sell your unused committed use contracts on the Google Cloud marketplace if your needs change during the contract term.

By thoughtfully employing Committed Use Contracts, you can gain greater cost predictability and save considerably on your Google Cloud resource usage over time.