Serverless architecture, also known as serverless computing, is a cloud-computing execution model where the cloud provider manages the server infrastructure and dynamically allocates resources. This model allows developers to build and run applications without managing servers.
Key Concepts
- Function as a Service (FaaS): The cloud provider hosts your application code in the form of functions that are triggered by events. The provider manages the server infrastructure and scales the application automatically.
- Backend as a Service (BaaS): The cloud provider offers a set of pre-built services that developers can use to build applications without managing the infrastructure.
- Event-Driven Architecture: Applications are designed to respond to events, such as user interactions or data changes, rather than following a linear flow.
Benefits
- Scalability: Serverless architectures automatically scale based on demand, so you don't have to worry about managing servers.
- Cost-Effectiveness: You only pay for the resources you use, which can result in significant cost savings.
- Simplicity: Serverless architectures simplify the development and deployment process.
Challenges
- Vendor Lock-in: Serverless architectures can lead to vendor lock-in, as you may become dependent on a specific cloud provider's services.
- Cold Start: When a function is invoked for the first time, there may be a delay in response time, known as a "cold start."
Example
Here's an example of how a serverless architecture can be used to build a simple e-commerce application:
- Frontend: A web application that interacts with the serverless backend.
- Backend: A set of FaaS functions that handle authentication, product listings, and shopping cart operations.
- Database: A managed database service that stores user data and product information.
Learn More
For more information on serverless architecture, check out our Serverless Architecture Guide.