MONOLITHIC ARCHITECTURE Meaning and
Definition
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Monolithic architecture refers to a software design pattern or architectural style in which an entire system or application is built as a single, indivisible unit. In this approach, all components and functionality are tightly integrated and deployed together, thus making it difficult to modify or scale individual parts of the system independently.
In a monolithic architecture, the different modules of the system are typically tightly coupled, meaning that changes or updates to one part of the application may potentially have a ripple effect throughout the entire system. The codebase is often large and can become complex as the application scales, making it challenging to maintain and understand.
The monolithic architecture is characterized by having a single codebase, a single deployment bundle, and a single process for handling all user requests. This approach provides simplicity and ease of development, as well as efficient communication between different components within the system.
However, monolithic architectures can also present challenges. Scaling becomes more difficult due to the need to replicate the entire system, rather than just specific components. Additionally, the tight coupling of modules can hinder agility and hinder the ability to adopt new technologies or make changes to individual components without affecting the entire system. These drawbacks have led to the emergence of alternative architectural patterns, such as microservices, which aim to address these limitations by breaking the system down into smaller, independent services.
Etymology of MONOLITHIC ARCHITECTURE
The word "monolithic" in the term "monolithic architecture" originates from the Greek words "mono" meaning "single" or "one" and "lithos" meaning "stone". In this context, "monolithic" refers to something that is made from a single, large, and solid piece of stone. The term has been extended metaphorically to describe any structure or system that is characterized by unity, indivisibility, and lack of differentiation. In the context of architecture, "monolithic architecture" refers to a style of design where a building or structure appears as a single, massive, and unified entity, often without distinct or recognizable individual elements or features.
