#systemdesign #softwarearchitect

Here's the full story that didn't fit in the reel.
In March 2024, Redis changed its license from open-source BSD to a restrictive dual license. The goal was to stop AWS and Google from offering Redis as a managed service without paying. The community lost it. 70% of Redis users started looking for alternatives.
Within weeks, AWS, Google, Oracle, and others forked Redis 7.2.4 into a new project called Valkey — fully open source under the Linux Foundation. Same commands, same API, same data formats. Zero code changes to migrate.
The cost difference on AWS ElastiCache right now: → Node-based clusters: Valkey is 20% cheaper → Serverless: Valkey is 33% cheaper → Combined with Valkey's memory improvements, AWS says you can save up to 60%
One team documented going from $2,862/month to $181/month after switching.
How to migrate: Go to ElastiCache console → select your Redis cluster → Modify → change engine to Valkey → done. Zero downtime. Your existing reserved node pricing still applies.
The irony? Redis saw what was happening and reversed course in May 2025, releasing Redis 8 under AGPLv3 to win back the community. But the damage was done — Valkey already had 700+ contributors and backing from every major cloud provider.
Your move: check your team's ElastiCache bill this week. If you're still on Redis, switching to Valkey is the easiest cost win you'll ever present in a review.
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Видео #systemdesign #softwarearchitect канала Amit Vikram Awasthi