Monolith

Single tier

Definition
A monolith is a non-distributed application: all functionality it uses is internal to the application.
Monolith architecture diagram

Examples

  • Single-function Unix applications
  • Word processor

When should you use it?

A monolith can be structured, just like a distributed application. The difference is that these structures (modules) are internal and hence cannot be used by other applications. If this reuse is not needed, a monolith brings the added advantage of just being simpler to build and maintain.

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