Software Architecture Patterns Explained

What are Architecture Patterns?

Software architecture patterns are proven, reusable solutions for structuring applications. Choosing the right one shapes how scalable and maintainable your app is.

Common Patterns

1. Monolithic

Everything in one codebase/deployment. Simple to start, harder to scale.

2. Microservices

App split into small, independent services. Scalable but complex.

User Service | Order Service | Payment Service
   (each deploys & scales independently)

3. MVC (Model-View-Controller)

Part	Role
Model	Data & logic
View	UI
Controller	Handles requests

4. Layered (N-Tier)

Separate layers: presentation → business → data. Common in enterprise apps.

5. Event-Driven

Components communicate via events — great for real-time and decoupled systems.

Monolith vs Microservices

• Monolith — simpler, good for small teams/startups.
• Microservices — scalable, good for large systems.

FAQs

Should I start with microservices?

No — start with a monolith and split into services only when needed. More in our Software guides.

What is MVC used for?

Organizing web apps — used by Rails, Django, ASP.NET.