Distributed System Architecture

 Distributed systems are networks of independent computers that work together to present themselves as
a unified system. These systems share resources and coordinate tasks across multiple nodes, allowing
them to work collectively to achieve common goals.
 The architecture of a distributed system defines how components interact and are structured to achieve
scalability, reliability, and efficiency.

Key Architecture Styles

Layered Architecture

Layered architecture organizes the system into hierarchical layers, each with specific functions and
responsibilities. This design pattern helps manage complexity and promotes separation of concerns. The system
is divided into distinct layers, where each layer provides specific services and interacts only with adjacent layers 1.
For example, web applications often use layered architecture with a presentation layer (user interface),
application layer (business logic), and data access layer (database interactions) 1.

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture

In P2P architecture, each node, or "peer," acts as both a client and a server, contributing resources and services to
the network. This decentralized network design contrasts with traditional client-server models, where nodes have
distinct roles as clients or servers1. Systems like BitTorrent use P2P architecture to allow users to share and
download files from multiple peers1.

Data-Centric Architecture

Data-centric architecture focuses on the central management and utilization of data. In this approach, data is
treated as a critical asset, and the system is designed around data management, storage, and retrieval processes 1.
Relational databases like MySQL and PostgreSQL use data-centric architecture to manage and store structured
data efficiently1.

Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA)

SOA is a design paradigm where software components, known as "services," are provided and consumed across a
network. Each service performs a specific business function and communicates with other services through
standardized protocols1. SOA is commonly used to integrate various enterprise applications such as ERP, CRM,
and HR systems1.

Event-Based Architecture

Event-Driven Architecture (EDA) is an architectural pattern where the flow of data and control in a system is
driven by events. Components in an EDA system communicate by producing and consuming events, which
represent state changes or actions within the system1. Real-time analytics systems like stock trading platforms use
EDA to process and respond to market events in real time1.

Microservices Architecture
Microservices architecture is a design pattern where an application is composed of small, independent services
that each perform a specific function. These services are loosely coupled and interact with each other through
lightweight communication protocols1. Companies like Netflix employ microservices to manage different
functionalities, such as recommendation engines, content delivery, and user interfaces1.

Client-Server Architecture

Client-server architecture is a foundational model where the system is divided into two main components: clients
and servers. Clients request services or resources, while servers provide those services or resources1. Web
applications and email systems commonly use client-server architecture.

What Are Distributed Systems? Architecture

Types, Key Components, and Examples
Architecture of Distributed Systems
Cloud-based software, the backbone of distributed systems, is a complicated
network of servers that anyone with an internet connection can access. In a
distributed system, components and connectors arrange themselves in a way
that eases communication. Components are modules with well-defined
interfaces that can be replaced or reused. Similarly, connectors are
communication links between modules that mediate coordination or
cooperation among components.
A distributed system is broadly divided into two essential concepts — software
architecture (further divided into layered architecture, object-based
architecture, data-centered architecture, and event-based architecture) and
system architecture (further divided into client-server architecture and peer-to-
peer architecture).
2. System architecture
System-level architecture focuses on the entire system and the placement of
components of a distributed system across multiple machines. The client-server
architecture and peer-to-peer architecture are the two major system-level
architectures that hold significance today. An example would be an ecommerce
system that contains a service layer, a database, and a web front.
i) Client-server architecture

As the name suggests, client-server architecture consists of a client and a

server. The server is where all the work processes are, while the client is where
the user interacts with the service and other resources (remote server). The
client can then request from the server, and the server will respond accordingly.
Typically, only one server handles the remote side; however, using multiple
servers ensures total safety.
 Client-server Architecture
Client-server architecture has one standard design feature: centralized security.
Data such as usernames and passwords are stored in a secure database for any
server user to have access to this information. This makes it more stable and
secure than peer-to-peer. This stability comes from client-server architecture,
where the security database can allow resource usage in a more meaningful
way. The system is much more stable and secure, even though it isn’t as fast as
a server. The disadvantages of a distributed system are its single point of
failure and not being as scalable as a server.
ii) Peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture
A peer-to-peer network, also called a (P2P) network, works on the concept of
no central control in a distributed system. A node can either act as a client or
server at any given time once it joins the network. A node that requests
something is called a client, and one that provides something is called a server.
In general, each node is called a peer.

Peer-to-Peer Architecture
If a new node wishes to provide services, it can do so in two ways. One way is
to register with a centralized lookup server, which will then direct the node to
the service provider. The other way is for the node to broadcast its service
request to every other node in the network, and whichever node responds will
provide the requested service.
P2P networks of today have three separate sections:
 Structured P2P: The nodes in structured P2P follow a predefined
distributed data structure.
  Unstructured P2P: The nodes in unstructured P2P randomly select
their neighbors.
 Hybrid P2P: In a hybrid P2P, some nodes have unique functions
appointed to them in an orderly manner.
See More: What Is Utility Computing? Definition, Process, Examples, and
Best Practices
Key Components of a Distributed System
The three basic components of a distributed system include primary system
controller, system data store, and database. In a non-clustered environment,
optional components consist of user interfaces and secondary controllers.
 Main Components of a Distributed System
1. Primary system controller
The primary system controller is the only controller in a distributed system and
keeps track of everything. It’s also responsible for controlling the dispatch and
management of server requests throughout the system. The executive and
mailbox services are installed automatically on the primary system controller.
In a non-clustered environment, optional components consist of a user interface
and secondary controllers.
2. Secondary controller

The secondary controller is a process controller or a communications

controller. It’s responsible for regulating the flow of server processing requests
and managing the system’s translation load. It also governs communication
between the system and VANs or trading partners.
3. User-interface client

The user interface client is an additional element in the system that provides
users with important system information. This is not a part of the clustered
environment, and it does not operate on the same machines as the controller. It
provides functions that are necessary to monitor and control the system.
4. System datastore

Each system has only one data store for all shared data. The data store is
usually on the disk vault, whether clustered or not. For non-clustered systems,
this can be on one machine or distributed across several devices, but all of
these computers must have access to this datastore.
5. Database

In a distributed system, a relational database stores all data. Once the data store
locates the data, it shares it among multiple users. Relational databases can be
found in all data systems and allow multiple users to use the same information
simultaneously.
See More: What Is Elastic Computing? Definition, Examples, and Best
Practices
Examples of a Distributed System
When processing power is scarce, or when a system encounters unpredictable
changes, distributed systems are ideal, and they help balance the workload.
Hence distributed systems have boundless use cases varying from electronic
banking systems to multiplayer online games. Let’s check out more explicit
instances of distributed systems:
1. Networks

The 1970s saw the invention of Ethernet and LAN (local area networks), which
enabled computers to connect in the same area. Peer-to-peer networks
developed, and e-mail and the internet continue to be the biggest examples of
distributed systems.
2. Telecommunication networks
Telephone and cellular networks are other examples of peer-to-peer networks.
Telephone networks started as an early example of distributed communication,
and cellular networks are also a form of distributed communication systems.
With the implementation of Voice over Internet (VoIP) communication
systems, they grow more complex as distributed communication networks.
3. Real-time systems

Real-time systems are not limited to specific industries. These systems can be
used and seen throughout the world in the airline, ride-sharing, logistics,
financial trading, massively multiplayer online games (MMOGs), and
ecommerce industries. The focus in such systems is on the correspondence and
processing of information with the need to convey data promptly to a huge
number of users who have an expressed interest in such data.
4. Parallel processors

Parallel computing splits specific tasks among multiple processors. This, in

turn, creates pieces to put together and form an extensive computational task.
Previously, parallel computing only focused on running software on multiple
threads or processors accessing the same data and memory. As operating
systems became more prevalent, they too fell into the category of parallel
processing.
5. Distributed database systems

A distributed database is spread out across numerous servers or regions. Data

can be replicated across several platforms. A distributed database system can
be either homogeneous or heterogeneous in nature. A homogeneous distributed
database uses the same database management system and data model across all
systems.
Adding new nodes and locations makes it easier to control and scale
performance. On the other hand, multiple data models and database
management systems are possible with heterogeneous distributed databases.
Gateways are used to translate data across nodes and are typically created due
to the merger of two or more applications or systems.
6. Distributed artificial intelligence

Distributed artificial intelligence is one of the many approaches of artificial

intelligence that is used for learning and entails complex learning algorithms,
large-scale systems, and decision making. It requires a large set of
computational data points located in various locations.
A few real-world examples of distributed systems include:
1. Video-rendering systems
2. Scientific computing
3. Airline and hotel reservation
4. Cryptocurrency processors like Bitcoin
5. P2P file-sharing like BitTorrent
6. Multiplayer video games
 7. E-learning applications
8. Distributed supply chains like Amazon
Takeaway
Distributed systems are the most significant benefactor behind modern computing systems due to
their capability of providing scalable and improved performance. Distributed systems are an
essential component of wireless networks, cloud computing, and the internet. Since they can draw
on the resources of other devices and processes, distributed systems offer some features that would
be hard or even impossible to develop on a singular system and have become immensely reliable
by combining the power of multiple machines.

Architecture Styles in Distributed Systems

Architecture styles in distributed systems define how components interact and are
structured to achieve scalability, reliability, and efficiency. This article explores key
architecture styles—including Peer-to-Peer, SOA, and others—highlighting their
concepts, advantages, and applications in building robust distributed systems.
What are Distributed Systems?
Distributed Systems are networks of independent computers that work together to
present themselves as a unified system. These systems share resources and coordinate
tasks across multiple nodes, allowing them to work collectively to achieve common
goals. Key characteristics include:
 Multiple Nodes: Consists of multiple interconnected computers or servers that
communicate over a network.
 Resource Sharing: Enable sharing of resources such as processing power, storage,
and data among the nodes.
 Scalability: This can be scaled by adding more nodes to handle increased load or
expand functionality.
 Fault Tolerance: Designed to handle failures of individual nodes without affecting
the overall system’s functionality.
 Transparency: Aim to hide the complexities of the underlying network, making the
system appear as a single coherent entity to users.
Architecture Styles in Distributed Systems
To show different arrangement styles among computers Architecture styles are
proposed.
1. Layered Architecture in Distributed Systems
Layered Architecture in distributed systems organizes the system into hierarchical
layers, each with specific functions and responsibilities. This design pattern helps
manage complexity and promotes separation of concerns. Here’s a detailed explanation:
 In a layered architecture, the system is divided into distinct layers, where each layer
provides specific services and interacts only with adjacent layers.
 This separation helps in managing and scaling the system more effectively.

Layers and Their Functions

 Presentation Layer
o Function: Handles user interaction and presentation of data. It is
responsible for user interfaces and client-side interactions.
o Responsibilities: Rendering data, accepting user inputs, and sending
requests to the underlying layers.
 Application Layer
o Function: Contains the business logic and application-specific
functionalities.
o Responsibilities: Processes requests from the presentation layer, executes
business rules, and provides responses back to the presentation layer.
 Middleware Layer
o Function: Facilitates communication and data exchange between different
components or services.
o Responsibilities: Manages message passing, coordination, and integration
of various distributed components.
 Data Access Layer
o Function: Manages data storage and retrieval from databases or other data
sources.
o Responsibilities: Interacts with databases or file systems, performs data
queries, and ensures data integrity and consistency.
Advantages of Layered Architecture in Distributed System
 Separation of Concerns: Each layer focuses on a specific aspect of the system,
making it easier to develop, test, and maintain.
 Modularity: Changes in one layer do not necessarily affect others, allowing for
more flexible updates and enhancements.
 Reusability: Layers can be reused across different applications or services within
the same system.
 Scalability: Different layers can be scaled independently to handle increased load or
performance requirements.
Disadvantages of Layered Architecture in Distributed System
 Performance Overhead: Each layer introduces additional overhead due to data
passing and processing between layers.
 Complexity: Managing interactions between layers and ensuring proper integration
can be complex, particularly in large-scale systems.
 Rigidity: The strict separation of concerns might lead to rigidity, where changes in
the system’s requirements could require substantial modifications across multiple
layers.
Examples of Layered Architecture in Distributed System
 Web Applications: A common example includes web applications with a
presentation layer (user interface), application layer (business logic), and data
access layer (database interactions).
 Enterprise Systems: Large enterprise systems often use layered architecture to
separate user interfaces, business logic, and data management.

2. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture in Distributed Systems

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture is a decentralized network design where each node, or
“peer,” acts as both a client and a server, contributing resources and services to the
network. This architecture contrasts with traditional client-server models, where nodes
have distinct roles as clients or servers.
 In a P2P architecture, all nodes (peers) are equal participants in the network, each
capable of initiating and receiving requests.
 Peers collaborate to share resources, such as files or computational power, without
relying on a central server.
Key Features of Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture in Distributed Systems
 Decentralization
o Function: There is no central server or authority. Each peer operates
independently and communicates directly with other peers.
o Advantages: Reduces single points of failure and avoids central
bottlenecks, enhancing robustness and fault tolerance.
 Resource Sharing
o Function: Peers share resources such as processing power, storage space,
or data with other peers.
o Advantages: Increases resource availability and utilization across the
network.
 Scalability
o Function: The network can scale easily by adding more peers. Each new
peer contributes additional resources and capacity.
o Advantages: The system can handle growth in demand without requiring
significant changes to the underlying infrastructure.
 Self-Organization
o Function: Peers organize themselves and manage network connections
dynamically, adapting to changes such as peer arrivals and departures.
o Advantages: Facilitates network management and resilience without
central coordination.
Advantages of Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture in Distributed Systems
 Fault Tolerance: The decentralized nature ensures that the failure of one or several
peers does not bring down the entire network.
 Cost Efficiency: Eliminates the need for expensive central servers and infrastructure
by leveraging existing resources of the peers.
 Scalability: Easily accommodates a growing number of peers, as each new peer
enhances the network’s capacity.
Disadvantages of Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture in Distributed Systems
 Security: Decentralization can make it challenging to enforce security policies and
manage malicious activity, as there is no central authority to oversee or control the
network.
 Performance Variability: The quality of services can vary depending on the peers’
resources and their availability, leading to inconsistent performance.
 Complexity: Managing connections, data consistency, and network coordination
without central control can be complex and may require sophisticated protocols.
Examples of Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture in Distributed Systems
 File Sharing Networks: Systems like BitTorrent allow users to share and download
files from multiple peers, with each peer contributing to the upload and download
processes.
 Decentralized Applications (DApps): Applications that run on decentralized
networks, leveraging P2P architecture for tasks like data storage and computation.

3. Data-Centic Architecture in Distributed Systems

Data-Centric Architecture is an architectural style that focuses on the central
management and utilization of data. In this approach, data is treated as a critical asset,
and the system is designed around data management, storage, and retrieval processes
rather than just the application logic or user interfaces.
 The core idea of Data-Centric Architecture is to design systems where data is the
primary concern, and various components or services are organized to support
efficient data management and manipulation.
 Data is centrally managed and accessed by multiple applications or services,
ensuring consistency and coherence across the system.

Key Principles of Data-Centic Architecture in Distributed Systems

 Centralized Data Management:
o Function: Data is managed and stored in a central repository or database,
making it accessible to various applications and services.
o Principle: Ensures data consistency and integrity by maintaining a single
source of truth.
 Data Abstraction:
o Function: Abstracts the data from the application logic, allowing different
services or applications to interact with data through well-defined
interfaces.
o Principle: Simplifies data access and manipulation while hiding the
underlying complexity.
 Data Normalization:
o Function: Organizes data in a structured manner, often using
normalization techniques to reduce redundancy and improve data integrity.
o Principle: Enhances data quality and reduces data anomalies by ensuring
consistent data storage.
 Data Integration:
o Function: Integrates data from various sources and systems to provide a
unified view and enable comprehensive data analysis.
o Principle: Supports interoperability and facilitates comprehensive data
analysis across diverse data sources.
 Scalability and Performance:
o Function: Designs the data storage and management systems to handle
increasing volumes of data efficiently.
o Principle: Ensures the system can scale to accommodate growing data
needs while maintaining performance.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Data-Centic Architecture in Distributed
Systems
 Advantages:
o Consistency: Centralized data management helps maintain a single source
of truth, ensuring data consistency across the system.
o Integration: Facilitates easy integration of data from various sources,
providing a unified view and enabling better decision-making.
o Data Quality: Data normalization and abstraction help improve data
quality and reduce redundancy, leading to more accurate and reliable
information.
o Efficiency: Centralized management can optimize data access and
retrieval processes, improving overall system efficiency.
 Disadvantages:-
o Single Point of Failure: Centralized data repositories can become a
bottleneck or single point of failure, potentially impacting system
reliability.
o Performance Overhead: Managing large volumes of centralized data can
introduce performance overhead, requiring robust infrastructure and
optimization strategies.
o Complexity: Designing and managing a centralized data system can be
complex, especially when dealing with large and diverse datasets.
o Scalability Challenges: Scaling centralized data systems to accommodate
increasing data volumes and access demands can be challenging and may
require significant infrastructure investment.
Examples of Data-Centic Architecture in Distributed Systems
 Relational Databases: Systems like MySQL, PostgreSQL, and Oracle use Data-
Centric Architecture to manage and store structured data efficiently, providing
consistent access and integration across applications.
 Data Warehouses: Platforms such as Amazon Redshift and Google BigQuery are
designed to centralize and analyze large volumes of data from various sources,
enabling complex queries and data analysis.
 Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: ERP systems like SAP and Oracle
ERP integrate various business functions (e.g., finance, HR, supply chain) around a
centralized data repository to support enterprise-wide operations and decision-
making.

4. Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) in Distributed

Systems
Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) is a design paradigm in distributed systems where
software components, known as “services,” are provided and consumed across a
network. Each service is a discrete unit that performs a specific business function and
communicates with other services through standardized protocols.
 In SOA, the system is structured as a collection of services that are loosely coupled
and interact through well-defined interfaces. These services are independent and can
be developed, deployed, and managed separately.
 They communicate over a network using standard protocols such as HTTP, SOAP,
or REST, allowing for interoperability between different systems and technologies.
Key Principles of Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) in Distributed
Systems
 Loose Coupling:
o Function: Services are designed to be independent, minimizing
dependencies on one another.
o Principle: Changes to one service do not affect others, enhancing system
flexibility and maintainability.
 Service Reusability:
o Function: Services are created to be reused across different applications
and contexts.
o Principle: Reduces duplication of functionality and effort, improving
efficiency and consistency.
 Interoperability:
o Function: Services interact using standardized communication protocols
and data formats, such as XML or JSON.
o Principle: Facilitates communication between diverse systems and
platforms, enabling integration across heterogeneous environments.
 Discoverability:
o Function: Services are registered in a service directory or registry where
they can be discovered and invoked by other services or applications.
o Principle: Enhances system flexibility by allowing dynamic service
discovery and integration.
 Abstraction:
o Function: Services expose only necessary interfaces and hide their
internal implementation details.
o Principle: Simplifies interactions between services and reduces
complexity for consumers.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) in
Distributed Systems
 Advantages:
o Flexibility: Loose coupling allows for easier changes and updates to
services without impacting the overall system.
o Reusability: Services can be reused across different applications, reducing
redundancy and development effort.
o Scalability: Services can be scaled independently, supporting dynamic
load balancing and efficient resource utilization.
o Interoperability: Standardized protocols enable integration across various
platforms and technologies, fostering collaboration and data exchange.
 Disadvantages:
o Complexity: Managing multiple services and their interactions can
introduce complexity, requiring effective governance and orchestration.
 o Performance Overhead: Communication between services over a
network can introduce latency and overhead, affecting overall system
performance.
o Security: Ensuring secure communication and consistent security policies
across multiple services can be challenging.
o Deployment and Maintenance: Deploying and maintaining a distributed
collection of services requires robust infrastructure and management
practices.
Examples and Use Cases of Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) in
Distributed Systems
 Enterprise Systems: SOA is commonly used to integrate various enterprise
applications such as ERP, CRM, and HR systems, allowing them to work together
seamlessly.
 Web Services: Many modern web applications leverage SOA principles to interact
with external services via APIs, enabling functionalities such as payment processing,
data retrieval, and authentication.

5. Event-Based Architecture in Distributed Systems

Event-Driven Architecture (EDA) is an architectural pattern where the flow of data and
control in a system is driven by events. Components in an EDA system communicate by
producing and consuming events, which represent state changes or actions within the
system.
Key Principles of Event-Based Architecture in Distributed Systems
 Event Producers: Components or services that generate events to signal state
changes or actions.
 Event Consumers: Components or services that listen for and react to events,
processing them as needed.
 Event Channels: Mechanisms for transmitting events between producers and
consumers, such as message queues or event streams.
 Loose Coupling: Producers and consumers are decoupled, interacting through
events rather than direct calls, allowing for more flexible system interactions.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Event-Based Architecture in
Distributed Systems
 Advantages:
o Scalability: Supports scalable and responsive systems by decoupling event
producers from consumers.
o Flexibility: Allows for dynamic and real-time processing of events,
adapting to changing conditions.
o Responsiveness: Enables systems to react immediately to events,
improving responsiveness and user experience.
 Disadvantages:
o Complexity: Managing event flow, ensuring reliable delivery, and
handling event processing can be complex.
o Event Ordering: Ensuring correct processing order of events can be
challenging, especially in distributed systems.
 o Debugging and Testing: Troubleshooting issues in an event-driven
system can be difficult due to asynchronous and distributed nature.
Examples and Use Cases of Event-Based Architecture in Distributed
Systems
 Real-Time Analytics: Systems like stock trading platforms use EDA to process and
respond to market events in real time.
 IoT Systems: Internet of Things (IoT) applications use EDA to manage and respond
to data from various sensors and devices.
 Fraud Detection: Financial institutions use EDA to detect and respond to suspicious
activities or anomalies in real time.

6. Microservices Architecture for Distributed Systems

Microservices Architecture is a design pattern where an application is composed of
small, independent services that each perform a specific function. These services are
loosely coupled and interact with each other through lightweight communication
protocols, often over HTTP or messaging queues.
Key Principles of Microservices Architecture for Distributed Systems
 Single Responsibility: Each microservice focuses on a single business capability or
function, enhancing modularity.
 Autonomy: Microservices are independently deployable and scalable, allowing for
changes and updates without affecting other services.
 Decentralized Data Management: Each microservice manages its own data,
reducing dependencies and promoting scalability.
 Inter-service Communication: Services communicate through well-defined APIs
or messaging protocols.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Microservices Architecture for
Distributed Systems
 Advantages:
o Scalability: Services can be scaled independently based on demand,
improving resource utilization.
o Resilience: Failure in one service does not necessarily impact others,
enhancing system reliability.
o Deployment Flexibility: Microservices can be developed, deployed, and
updated independently, facilitating continuous delivery.
 Disadvantages:
o Complexity: Managing multiple services and their interactions can be
complex and requires effective orchestration.
o Data Consistency: Ensuring data consistency across services can be
challenging due to decentralized data management.
o Network Overhead: Communication between microservices can
introduce latency and require efficient handling of network traffic.
Examples of Microservices Architecture for Distributed Systems
 E-Commerce Platforms: Platforms like Amazon use microservices to handle
different aspects of their operations, such as user authentication, payment
processing, and order management.
 Streaming Services: Companies like Netflix employ microservices to manage
different functionalities, such as recommendation engines, content delivery, and user
interfaces.
 Financial Services: Banks and financial institutions use microservices to manage
various functions, including transaction processing, customer management, and
compliance.

7. Client Server Architecture in Distributed Systems

Client-Server Architecture is a foundational model in distributed systems where the
system is divided into two main components: clients and servers. This architecture
defines how tasks and services are distributed across different entities within a network.
 In Client-Server Architecture, clients request services or resources, while servers
provide those services or resources.
 The client initiates a request to the server, which processes the request and returns
the appropriate response.
 This model centralizes the management of resources and services on the server side,
while the client side focuses on presenting information and interacting with users.

Key Principles of Client Server Architecture in Distributed Systems

 Separation of Concerns:
o Function: Clients handle user interactions and requests, while servers
manage resources, data, and business logic.
o Principle: Separates user interface and client-side processing from server-
side data management and processing, leading to a clear division of
responsibilities.
 Centralized Management:
o Function: Servers centralize resources and services, making them
accessible to multiple clients.
o Principle: Simplifies resource management and maintenance by
concentrating them in one or more server locations.
 Request-Response Model:
o Function: Clients send requests to servers, which process these requests
and send back responses.
o Principle: Defines a communication pattern where the client and server
interact through a well-defined protocol, often using HTTP or similar
standards.
 Scalability:
o Function: Servers can be scaled to handle increasing numbers of clients or
requests.
o Principle: Servers can be upgraded or expanded to improve performance
and accommodate growing demand.
 Security:
o Function: Security mechanisms are often implemented on the server side
to control access and manage sensitive data.
o Principle: Centralizes security policies and controls, making it easier to
enforce and manage security measures.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Client Server Architecture in
Distributed Systems
 Advantages:
o Centralized Control: Easier to manage and update resources and services
from a central location.
o Simplified Maintenance: Updates and changes are made on the server
side, reducing the need for client-side modifications.
o Resource Optimization: Servers can be optimized for performance and
reliability, serving multiple clients efficiently.
o Security Management: Centralized security policies and controls make it
simpler to protect resources and data.
 Disadvantages:
o Single Point of Failure: Servers can become a single point of failure,
impacting all connected clients if they go down.
o Scalability Challenges: Handling a large number of client requests can
overwhelm servers, requiring careful load management and scaling
strategies.
o Network Dependency: Clients depend on network connectivity to access
server resources, which can impact performance and reliability.
o Performance Bottlenecks: High demand on servers can lead to
performance bottlenecks, requiring efficient resource management and
optimization.
Examples of Client Server Architecture in Distributed Systems
 Web Applications: In a typical web application, web browsers (clients) request web
pages or data from web servers.
 Email Systems: Email clients connect to email servers to send, receive, and manage
email messages.
 Database Access: Database clients request data and perform queries on database
servers.

FAQs on Architecture Styles in Distributed Systems

Below are the main faqs on architectural styles in distributed systems:
Q1. How do different architecture styles impact the scalability of
distributed systems?
Microservices scale flexibly with independent service scaling, P2P scales naturally with
node addition, SOA scales through integrated services but can face overhead, Layered
Architecture scales with vertical or horizontal expansion, and EDA scales efficiently
with decoupled components but requires robust event management.
Q2. What are the trade-offs between consistency and availability in Event-
Driven Architecture (EDA)?
EDA prioritizes availability by decoupling components but may sacrifice strong
consistency, leading to eventual consistency where data updates propagate
asynchronously.
Q3. How do different architecture styles handle fault tolerance and
reliability?
Microservices offer fault isolation per service, P2P provides inherent fault tolerance
through decentralization, SOA can be vulnerable to single points of failure, Layered
Architecture depends on redundancy in each layer, and EDA ensures fault tolerance
through event decoupling.
Q4. How does the choice of architecture style impact data management
and consistency across distributed systems?
Microservices decentralize data management requiring complex synchronization, SOA
centralizes data but relies on service contracts, P2P distributes data management
challenging consistency, Layered Architecture centralizes access to ensure consistency,
and EDA focuses on eventual consistency with asynchronous processing.

Q5. What are the challenges in implementing security measures

across different architecture styles in distributed systems?
Microservices require securing inter-service communication, SOA needs consistent
security policies across services, P2P involves securing peer communications and trust,
Layered Architecture must apply security consistently across layers, and EDA needs to
secure event channels and data integrity.

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Conclusion

Distributed system architecture plays a crucial role in determining how components interact and are structured to
achieve scalability, reliability, and efficiency. Different architecture styles offer various advantages and
challenges, and the choice of architecture depends on the specific requirements and goals of the system .