Which AWS service is best suited for automating software release processes?

AWS CodeDeploy is specifically designed to automate the software release processes, making it the most suitable option among the choices provided. It enables users to deploy applications to various compute services such as Amazon EC2, AWS Lambda, and even on-premises servers. One of its primary functions is to facilitate continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD) workflows, allowing developers to release updates reliably and quickly. This automation helps minimize downtime and ensures that new versions of software can be deployed with ease.

AWS Lambda, while powerful for running code in response to events and managing serverless applications, doesn't specifically target the automation of software releases. Its functionality focuses on executing code rather than orchestrating deployment processes.

AWS CloudFormation is primarily used for infrastructure as code, allowing users to define and provision AWS infrastructure in a programmable manner. While it can be part of a wider CI/CD pipeline, it does not directly automate the software release itself.

AWS S3 is a storage service used for storing and retrieving data, which, while it can hold application artifacts or deployment packages, does not provide any automation for the release process.

Thus, AWS CodeDeploy stands out as the correct choice for automating the workflow of software releases, ensuring efficient and reliable deployments.