Until a few years ago, we all worked on a large but singular codebase where all the components, features, and functionalities of an application were tightly integrated and connected. This kind of architecture is called the Monolith software architecture.
Then came microservices to ease the challenges posed by monoliths. Microservices architecture is a contemporary method for designing and organizing software applications. It aims to tackle some of the limitations presented by traditional monolithic architectures. In a microservices architecture, an application is divided into smaller, loosely connected services that can be developed, deployed, and managed separately. Each service concentrates on a specific business capability and communicates with other services using well-defined APIs.
Subsequently, many of us transitioned from our old monoliths to smaller microservices. However, are you making this shift simply because it's a trend? Before you convert your codebase, take a thorough look to determine if your project is truly suitable for transformation into microservices.
Here are five reasons why you should be cautious about adopting microservices:
1. Small-Scale Systems
Microservices might not be suitable for small-scale systems with low complexity; a monolithic architecture could be more appropriate. Microservices introduce complexity to reap their benefits, and for small systems, this added complexity might not outweigh the advantages.
2. Interdependent Functionality or Data
Creating a system where most services rely heavily on others would negate the advantages of microservices. It would hinder the independent deployment nature that microservices strive for, resulting in a tightly interconnected system – the very scenario microservices aim to avoid.
3. High-Performance Systems
Microservices may not be the best choice for systems demanding exceptional performance, such as military applications, real-time software, games, NASA projects, and similar cases. Microservices systems inherently carry performance overhead due to network communication. The frequent exchange of information between services introduces network latency and data transformations, negatively impacting performance. If performance is a priority, it's advisable to think carefully before opting for microservices.
4. Rapid Development Solutions
When an immediate, compact solution is required, microservices might not be the way to go. For instance, when creating a Proof of Concept (POC), which is often employed to demonstrate the feasibility of an idea using a small software piece.
5. Absence of Planned Upgrades
One of the main advantages of microservices is their scalability. If there are no planned updates or expansions, microservices might not be justified.
Wrap-Up!
Poor architecture can create more challenges than benefits. Prior to implementation, consider whether your project is suited for the chosen architecture. If it's not, and the monolithic architecture is functioning effectively, there's no need to address a problem that doesn't actually exist.
Thanks for reading! 🤗
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