AWS Migration Checklist for Startups: 10 Actionable Best Practices

Migrating to AWS involves more than just server provisioning; it requires a detailed blueprint to avoid common pitfalls that can lead to unnecessary costs and security vulnerabilities. Key practices include implementing Infrastructure as Code (IaC) to ensure reproducibility and version control, using Auto Scaling Groups for resilience, and enforcing a strict tagging policy for resource management and cost attribution. The use of AWS-managed services and setting up a minimal viable CI/CD pipeline are recommended for reducing maintenance overhead and enabling reliable product delivery. Furthermore, automating high-priority tasks and establishing comprehensive monitoring from the outset are crucial for maintaining application health and infrastructure visibility. Security is paramount, with strict adherence to the Principle of Least Privilege, avoiding the use of the root account for daily tasks, and enabling Multi-Factor Authentication for IAM users. These foundational practices ensure a scalable, cost-effective, and secure cloud environment, allowing teams to focus on delivering business value rather than dealing with infrastructure challenges.