The availability buffer is a pool of available servers that Multiplay Hosting maintains to quickly fulfill allocation requests. This buffer ensures that players don't have to wait for new servers to start when demand increases.

How the availability buffer works

Multiplay Hosting keeps a collection of ready-to-use servers in each region. When an allocation request comes in, Multiplay Hosting can immediately allocate one of these pre-started servers instead of waiting for a new server to provision and start.

The size of the availability buffer is controlled by the region's scaling settings:

• Minimum available servers: The minimum number of servers Multiplay Hosting keeps in the buffer.

• Maximum available servers: The maximum number of servers Multiplay Hosting keeps in the buffer.

Benefits of the availability buffer

Reduced latency

Players can connect to games faster because servers are already running and ready to accept allocations. This eliminates the delay of provisioning new machines and starting server processes.

Handling traffic spikes

The buffer provides a cushion to absorb sudden increases in player demand. When many allocation requests come in at once, Multiplay Hosting can fulfill them from the buffer while simultaneously scaling up additional capacity.

Improved player experience

By ensuring servers are always available, players experience shorter matchmaking times and fewer failed connection attempts.

Configuring the availability buffer

You can configure the availability buffer through the scaling settings for each region in your fleet:

1. Navigate to your fleet in the Multiplay Dashboard.

2. Select the region you want to configure.

3. Adjust the Minimum available servers and Maximum available servers settings.

4. Save your changes.

Considerations

• Cost: Available servers consume resources and incur costs even when not actively hosting game sessions. Balance the buffer size against your budget.

• Region-specific: Each region has its own availability buffer. Configure each region based on expected player demand.

• Scaling interaction: The availability buffer works alongside your overall scaling configuration to maintain the right number of servers.

Related concepts

• Available servers

• Scaling settings

• Scaling

• Allocations