Software Architectures

Monolithic

This architecture involves building a software system as a single, self-contained unit. All the components of the system are tightly coupled and run in a single process. This architecture is simple to develop, test and deploy, but can be difficult to scale and maintain as the application grows.

Tiered

Tiered architecture, also known as multi-tiered architecture, is a software architecture pattern that divides an application into three or more logical layers, or tiers, based on the functionality and responsibilities of each layer. The main idea behind this architecture is to separate the presentation, application processing, and data management functionalities of an application into different layers to increase scalability, maintainability, and flexibility.

The typical three-tier architecture consists of the following layers:

Presentation tier: This is the topmost layer of the application, responsible for displaying the user interface and handling user input. It can be implemented as a web application, desktop application, or mobile application. The presentation layer communicates with the application layer to retrieve and process data.

Application tier: This layer, also known as the business logic layer or middle tier, contains the application logic that processes and manipulates data. It is responsible for implementing business rules, workflows, and validations. The application layer communicates with the data tier to retrieve and store data.

Data tier: This layer, also known as the database layer, is responsible for managing the storage and retrieval of data. It typically consists of a database management system (DBMS) and the associated data storage infrastructure. The data tier communicates with the application layer to provide and receive data.

In addition to these three tiers, there may be additional tiers such as integration tier, security tier, or service layer, depending on the specific needs of the application.

The advantages of using a tiered architecture include improved scalability, maintainability, and flexibility. Each layer can be developed, tested, and deployed independently, allowing for better modularization and separation of concerns. This architecture also allows for better performance and reliability, as the load can be distributed across multiple servers and the failure of one layer does not affect the functioning of other layers.

Microservices

This architecture involves breaking down a system into a collection of small, independent services, each of which performs a specific function. Each service communicates with other services using lightweight protocols, such as REST. This architecture allows for greater flexibility and scalability, but can be complex to manage and requires a more advanced infrastructure.

Service Oriented

This architecture is similar to the microservices architecture, but with a greater emphasis on standardized interfaces and protocols. SOA is designed to make it easier to integrate different software components and systems, but can be more complex to develop and maintain.

Event Driven

This architecture involves building a system around events, such as user interactions or system events. Each event triggers a specific action or response in the system. This architecture is highly scalable and allows for greater flexibility, but can be more complex to implement and test.