Serverless architecture patterns refer to design approaches that leverage serverless computing environments to deliver applications and services without the need to manage the underlying server infrastructure. In this model, developers write and deploy code in the form of functions that run in response to events. This allows them to focus on writing business logic while the cloud provider handles the provisioning, scaling, and maintenance of the infrastructure. Examples of serverless architecture patterns include event-driven processing, microservices, and API backends.
One common pattern is the event-driven architecture, where a series of functions are triggered by specific events such as HTTP requests, message queue events, or database changes. For instance, an application might use a function to process an image uploaded to storage. When the image is uploaded, it triggers a function that resizes the image, which in turn may invoke another function to generate thumbnails. This decoupling of components allows easy scaling and updating of individual parts without impacting the entire system.
Another useful pattern is the microservices architecture, which involves building applications as a collection of small, independent services. Each service handles a specific business capability and can be developed, deployed, and scaled independently. In a serverless environment, each microservice can be implemented as a function. For example, an online shopping application may have separate functions for handling user authentication, processing payments, and managing inventory, allowing for individual scaling and easier maintenance. By combining these patterns, developers can create flexible and efficient applications that adapt easily to changing needs.