Category: System design
-
Compiler Design
Compiler Design: An Advanced Perspective Compiler design is a fundamental area of computer science focused on translating high-level programming languages into machine-readable code. The design and implementation of a compiler involve multiple phases, sophisticated algorithms, and intricate data structures. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the advanced mechanisms underpinning modern compiler design. — 1.…
-
TLS 1.2 ( Transport Layer Security)
TLS 1.2 (Transport Layer Security): A Deep Dive into Its Architecture and Mechanisms Transport Layer Security (TLS) is a cryptographic protocol designed to provide secure communication across computer networks, such as the Internet. TLS 1.2, an important version of the TLS protocol, was introduced in 2008 and became the de facto standard for securing data…
-
Compiler Design: Code Generation
Code generation is the final phase of a compiler, where intermediate representations are transformed into target machine code. This phase is responsible for producing efficient, executable code that meets the performance requirements of the hardware. Key components of code generation include target code generation, instruction selection, register allocation, and optimization techniques. Let’s delve into these…
-
Compiler Design: Error Detection and Recovery in
Error detection and recovery are crucial phases in the design of a compiler, as they ensure that errors in the source code are identified and managed gracefully. A robust error handling system allows the compiler to not only detect errors but also recover from them to continue parsing the input and provide meaningful feedback to…
-
Compiler Design: Lexical Analysis
Lexical analysis is a fundamental phase in the compilation process where the source code is converted into a sequence of tokens. These tokens are atomic units of syntax, such as keywords, identifiers, literals, and operators, which are crucial for syntactic and semantic analysis in later stages. Lexical analysis forms the backbone of compiler design, ensuring…
-
JWT Auth
JSON Web Token (JWT) is a widely adopted standard for secure, stateless, and efficient authentication. Unlike traditional session-based authentication, JWT offers a scalable approach to verify users without relying on persistent server-side session storage. This article delves deeply into the architecture, mechanisms, and best practices surrounding JWT-based authentication, providing an advanced perspective. 1. Understanding JWT…
-
CEP (Complex Event Processing)
Complex Event Processing (CEP) is an advanced data processing paradigm designed to analyze and act on multiple events in real time, identifying patterns, correlations, and aggregations from streams of data. In contrast to Simple Event Processing, CEP enables systems to derive meaningful information from the occurrence and relationships of different events, making it ideal for…
-
Microservices
Microservices, a cornerstone of modern software architecture, decompose applications into a collection of loosely coupled, independently deployable services. Each service is responsible for a specific domain within the larger application and communicates with other services typically via lightweight APIs, often RESTful or message-based. This contrasts with monolithic architectures where components are tightly interdependent. Microservices promote…
-
Consistent Hashing : Distributed System
Consistent hashing is a specialized hashing technique that plays a pivotal role in building distributed systems, particularly in scenarios where you need to evenly distribute data across a dynamic set of nodes. Unlike traditional hashing, which can lead to significant data movement when nodes are added or removed, consistent hashing ensures minimal disruption and maintains…
-
Memcached: A High-Performance In-Memory Caching System
Memcached is an open-source, high-performance, distributed memory caching system designed to accelerate dynamic web applications by alleviating database load. It is primarily used for caching frequently accessed data, such as database query results, API responses, or even session data, to improve performance and reduce latency. How Memcached Works Memcached operates on a simple key-value store…
-
DMA (Direct memory Access)
Direct Memory Access (DMA) is a system feature that allows hardware devices to transfer data directly to or from main memory without involving the CPU, improving overall efficiency and freeing up CPU resources for other tasks. In typical data transfers, the CPU handles the data movement, which can be time-consuming, especially for large volumes of…
-
MFA (Multi – Factor Authentication)
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security framework that requires users to authenticate their identity through multiple, independent credentials, enhancing protection against unauthorized access. By layering at least two distinct forms of verification—such as something the user knows (password), has (smartphone), or is (biometric data)—MFA mitigates risks associated with compromised passwords or physical devices. Core Components…
-
Request for Change (RFC)
A Request for Change (RFC) is a formalized mechanism for documenting, assessing, and approving modifications to a system, software, or process within an SDLC framework. It ensures that proposed changes are evaluated for their feasibility, impact, and alignment with project objectives. RFCs are essential in environments requiring controlled evolution of systems, such as in Agile,…
-
2FA (Two-Factor Authentication)
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security mechanism requiring two independent forms of verification to confirm user identity. Unlike standard single-factor authentication (SFA), which relies solely on a password, 2FA combines two distinct categories of verification: something the user knows (e.g., password) and something the user has (e.g., a mobile device for OTPs). This dual-layer reduces…
-
CQRS (Command Query Responsibility Segregation)
CQRS (Command Query Responsibility Segregation) is an architectural pattern used in software design to separate read operations (queries) from write operations (commands), aiming to optimize performance, scalability, and security. It is particularly effective in systems that experience high traffic, such as e-commerce platforms, social networks, and financial applications, where different operations have differing performance and…
-
CAP Theoram
The CAP theorem (Consistency, Availability, and Partition Tolerance) is a fundamental principle in distributed database systems, proposed by computer scientist Eric Brewer. It states that in any distributed data system, it’s impossible to achieve all three properties simultaneously; only two out of the three can be guaranteed at any given time. Core Properties of CAP…
-
Reverse Proxies
Reverse Proxies are intermediary servers that handle client requests before they reach the backend server. Unlike forward proxies, which serve client requests by masking client identity, reverse proxies sit in front of web servers to distribute, optimize, and secure incoming traffic. Their primary function is to route client requests to the appropriate backend server while…
-
Forward Proxies
Proxies act as intermediaries between clients and servers, handling and routing requests while abstracting the details of the underlying network infrastructure. In computer science, proxies offer numerous advantages such as privacy, security, performance improvement, and load distribution. By masking the client’s IP address, proxies enable users to access resources indirectly, often enhancing security or bypassing…
-
TLD (Top Level Domain)
A Top-Level Domain (TLD) is the highest level in the hierarchical Domain Name System (DNS) structure, used to classify and manage domain names on the internet. It is the last segment of a domain name, positioned after the final dot. For example, in the domain name “example.com,” the TLD is “com.” Types of TLDs TLDs…
-
Read Duplicates : Distributed System
In distributed systems, read duplicates refer to the occurrence of multiple, identical reads of the same data in a system, particularly when the data is being retrieved from different nodes or replicas. These duplicates often arise in systems that employ replication strategies for high availability and fault tolerance. While read duplicates may seem like a…
-
Simple Event Processing
Simple Event Processing (SEP) is an event-driven approach often employed in real-time systems where individual events trigger direct responses without complex pattern recognition or state tracking. In SEP, each event is handled independently, ideal for low-latency applications such as IoT devices, logging, or monitoring systems, where immediate action is required upon event occurrence. Core Characteristics…
-
Migrating Infra : Migration Starter
Migration starter refers to the initial phase of moving a system, application, or database from one environment to another. This process can encompass a variety of tasks such as moving from legacy systems to modern architectures, transitioning between cloud providers, or upgrading a database system. A proper migration starter is crucial for ensuring that the…
-
BASE Compliance
BASE compliance is a term primarily used within the context of distributed systems, especially in relation to NoSQL databases. BASE stands for Basically Available, Soft state, Eventually consistent, which serves as an alternative to the ACID (Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability) properties typically associated with relational databases. It is a concept critical for ensuring system reliability…
-
UAT (User Acceptance Testing)
User Acceptance Testing (UAT) is the final phase of the Software Testing Life Cycle (STLC). It ensures that the delivered system meets user requirements and is ready for deployment in a production environment. UAT focuses on validating the software from an end-user perspective, simulating real-world usage scenarios to ensure the system behaves as intended. Purpose…
-
Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC)
An Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) is a structured agreement between a service provider and a client to ensure ongoing support and maintenance for software, hardware, or IT systems. AMCs are critical for enterprises seeking uninterrupted operations and proactive issue resolution, ensuring systems remain optimized throughout their lifecycle. Components of an AMC 1. Scope of Work…
-
System Architecture Document in SDLC
The System Architecture Document (SAD) is an essential deliverable in the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC), defining the structure, interactions, and dependencies of system components. It serves as a blueprint for the technical team to design and implement the software system in alignment with business and technical goals. This document is pivotal for ensuring scalability,…
-
System Monitoring Plan (SMP)
A System Monitoring Plan (SMP) is a critical component in the architecture and operation of any software system, especially in large-scale distributed systems. It involves the continuous surveillance of system performance, health, security, and operational behavior to ensure smooth functioning, early detection of issues, and optimal resource usage. For software engineers and Ph.D. students, designing…
-
Functional Requirements Document (FRD)
The Functional Requirements Document (FRD) is a critical artifact in the SDLC that details the specific functional requirements of a system or application. It acts as a blueprint for stakeholders, developers, and testers by explicitly stating what the system should do. Unlike a BRD, which focuses on high-level business needs, the FRD delves into the…
-
JSON : (Data Interchange Format)
JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a lightweight data-interchange format that is widely used for storing and exchanging structured information between systems. Its simplicity, flexibility, and language-agnostic design make it a cornerstone of modern web development, API design, and data serialization. JSON structures data using key-value pairs, arrays, and objects, making it both human-readable and machine-parsable.…
-
Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) Documentation
The SDLC process is systematically organized into distinct phases, each requiring specific documentation to ensure clarity, traceability, and quality outcomes. Below is a detailed, jargon-rich elaboration of the key documents created in each phase of the SDLC. Phase 1: Planning This foundational stage focuses on establishing the project’s scope, goals, and resource requirements. 1. Project…
-
HTTP Web Storage: LocalStorage and SessionStorage
Web storage is a critical component of modern web development, offering mechanisms for client-side data storage. It enhances user experience by enabling persistent or session-based data storage directly in the browser, without involving server-side interaction. Web storage includes LocalStorage and SessionStorage, each designed for specific use cases. 1. Overview of Web Storage Web storage leverages…
-
HTTP Error Codes
HTTP error codes, also known as status codes, indicate the result of a request made to a web server. These codes are grouped into five categories based on the type of response, and each conveys specific information to both users and developers. Below is a detailed breakdown of these types and key codes, with advanced…
-
TCP / IP Model
The TCP/IP model (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is the backbone of internet and network communication. It outlines how data is transferred between devices over a network in a four-layered structure: 1. Link Layer (Network Access Layer): This layer includes protocols that deal with the physical aspects of data transfer, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and hardware addressing.…
-
HTTP Methods : Deep Dive
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the foundation of communication on the World Wide Web. HTTP methods, often referred to as “verbs,” define the type of action a client wants to perform on a given resource identified by a URL. These methods play a crucial role in RESTful APIs, enabling CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations.…
-
LLD (Low Level Design)
Low-Level Design (LLD) is a crucial phase in the software development lifecycle where the system’s components and interactions are designed in detail. LLD focuses on the implementation of the design from a developer’s perspective, detailing class structures, databases, APIs, and algorithms. It is more granular than High-Level Design (HLD) and is critical for developers to…
-
Edge Computing
Edge servers are strategically positioned nodes in a network architecture designed to bring data processing closer to end users, reducing latency and improving performance. These servers act as intermediaries between the user’s device and the core server infrastructure, often located on the edge of the network (hence the name). Edge computing optimizes the overall performance…
-
High-Level Design (HLD) : YouTube
The High-Level Design (HLD) for YouTube captures the main components, services, and interactions within the system. It outlines the architecture that supports a large-scale, highly scalable, robust, and secure video-sharing platform capable of managing billions of videos and users globally. 1. System Components Overview: Client Applications: Interfaces through which users interact with YouTube (mobile apps,…
-
High Level Design : UBER
Here’s a High-Level Design (HLD) for the advanced Uber system based on the components and architecture described earlier. This HLD focuses on key components, their interactions, and the overall flow of data within the system. High-Level Design for Uber System 1. System Overview: Users: Riders, Drivers, Admins. Core Modules: API Gateway, Authentication, Ride Matching, Location…
-
CDN (Content Dilivery Network)
A Content Delivery Network (CDN) is a distributed network of servers designed to efficiently deliver web content to users based on their geographical location. The primary goal of a CDN is to reduce latency, increase website load times, and enhance the overall performance of web applications by caching content in multiple locations. CDNs offload traffic…
-
AES 256 Compliance : Ensuring Robust Data Encryption
AES 256 (Advanced Encryption Standard) is widely regarded as one of the most secure encryption algorithms available today, especially for protecting sensitive data. AES 256-bit encryption is the highest security level defined within the AES family, which is used globally for everything from securing government communications to encrypting personal data in cloud storage and financial…
-
System Design : YouTube
YouTube is a video-sharing platform where users can upload, view, like, comment, and share videos. With over 2 billion monthly active users, YouTube’s architecture needs to support real-time video streaming, high availability, global distribution, user-generated content, and secure data management. This advanced system design for YouTube adheres to modern FANG (Facebook, Amazon, Netflix, Google) protocols,…
-
High Level Design : Whatsapp
Here’s the High-Level Design (HLD) for an advanced WhatsApp system, focusing on key components and their interactions 1. System Overview: Users: WhatsApp clients (mobile, web, desktop). Core Modules: API Gateway, Authentication, Message Delivery, Push Notification, Media Management, Group Management, Data Analytics, End-to-End Encryption (E2EE), etc. Key Components and Interactions: 1. Client Applications: Purpose: Mobile apps…
-
System design : UBER
UBER is a global ride-hailing platform that connects passengers with drivers via a mobile app. The system handles millions of users worldwide, requiring high scalability, reliability, security, and low latency. To design an Uber-like system that meets modern FANG (Facebook, Amazon, Netflix, Google) standards, we will break down the system into multiple components, focusing on…
-
Containerization
Containers are an essential technology in modern software development, facilitating the deployment and management of applications across diverse environments. A container is a lightweight, stand-alone, executable package of software that includes everything needed to run an application: code, runtime, libraries, environment variables, and configuration files. This isolation ensures consistency across different stages of development, from…
-
Waterfall development model
The Waterfall model is a traditional software development methodology that follows a linear, sequential approach where each phase must be completed before the next one begins. This model is highly structured and is most suitable for projects with well-defined requirements and minimal changes expected during the development lifecycle. Phases of the Waterfall Model: 1. Requirement…
-
BFS (Breadth-First Search)
Breadth-First Search (BFS) is a graph traversal algorithm that explores all the vertices of a graph level by level, starting from a given source vertex. BFS is often used in unweighted graphs to find the shortest path between two nodes, solve puzzles like mazes, and perform other graph-based analyses. BFS Algorithm Overview BFS uses a…
-
JWT (JSON Web Token):
JSON Web Token (JWT) is an open standard (RFC 7519) used for securely transmitting information between parties as a JSON object. It is compact, URL-safe, and typically used for authentication and authorization purposes in web applications. JWTs allow stateless authentication, which means the server does not need to store session data; instead, the token itself…
-
QUIC (Faster version of TCP)
QUIC (Quick UDP Internet Connections) is a modern transport layer protocol designed to improve the performance of internet communication. Initially developed by Google and later standardized by the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force), QUIC aims to enhance web performance, reduce latency, and increase security by combining the best features of existing protocols like TCP, TLS,…