# Manage cost control rules in Lightsail for Research
<a name="cost-control"></a>

Cost control uses rules that you define to help manage the usage and cost of your Lightsail for Research virtual computers.

You can create a **Stop virtual computer on idle** rule that stops a running computer when it reaches a specified percentage of its CPU utilization during a given period. For example, a rule can automatically stop a specific computer when its CPU utilization is equal to or less than 5% during a 30-minute period. This signifies that the computer is idle, and Lightsail for Research stops the computer. You no longer incur the standard hourly charges after the virtual computer is stopped.

**Topics**
+ [Create cost control rules for your Lightsail for Research virtual computers](create-cost-control-rules.md)
+ [Delete cost control rules for your Lightsail for Research virtual computers](delete-cost-control-rules.md)