Since the end of 2017, the term “microservices” has become increasingly common. But what exactly are microservices?
“Microservices are small, autonomous services working together to meet a specific demand.” or “Independent services that together compose a single system.”
To clarify, microservices represent a software architecture, not merely a web service.
As many systems and applications grow, it becomes increasingly challenging to implement changes. A simple change can necessitate a massive deployment. With luck, a deployment pipeline can ensure everything functions correctly before going live.
We are moving towards a scenario where we use physical servers for deployment. Now imagine deploying in the cloud: the cost of a simple change can be exorbitant, requiring more resources and generating unnecessary expenses. But then the question arises: is it possible to scale monolithic systems? Yes, it is possible. Even with horizontal scalability and load balancing, maintaining it over time is problematic.
Microservices are not simple; they demand more development time than monolithic systems. Analyzing whether to create a new system or convert a monolithic one must be done with great care and attention. Otherwise, we might end up creating a much bigger problem. So how can we be sure we’re on the right track? This depends on the company’s business rules and the system’s scope.
Key Characteristics of Monolithic Architecture
- Multiple functionalities in a single structure.
- High coupling.
- Application unavailability in case of changes.
- Restricted to one technology.
- Suitable for small applications.
- Low scalability.
Key Characteristics of Microservices Architecture
- Software modularized into small services.
- Low coupling.
- Independent deployment and testing.
- High availability.
- Open to any technology.
- Suitable for large applications.
- High scalability.
By adopting a microservices architecture, organizations can achieve greater flexibility, scalability, and maintainability. However, it’s crucial to approach this transition with a thorough understanding of the challenges and requirements involved. Careful planning and consideration of the specific needs and context of the application are essential to harnessing the full benefits of microservices.
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