Serverless computing

Definition

Serverless computing is a cloud computing model that allows developers to build and run applications without managing the underlying server infrastructure. In this model, cloud providers automatically handle the allocation of resources, scaling, and maintenance, enabling developers to focus on writing code and deploying applications quickly. This approach enhances efficiency by reducing operational costs and simplifying the deployment process for applications accessed over the internet, intranet, or extranet.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Serverless computing abstracts server management tasks like provisioning, scaling, and maintaining servers, allowing developers to concentrate on coding.
2. With serverless architectures, users are charged based on actual usage rather than pre-allocated resources, which can lead to cost savings.
3. Common serverless platforms include AWS Lambda, Azure Functions, and Google Cloud Functions, which support various programming languages.
4. Serverless computing promotes quick iterations and deployments since changes in code can be executed instantly without waiting for server configurations.
5. It is ideal for event-driven applications, such as real-time data processing and web APIs, where demand can be highly variable.

Review Questions

• How does serverless computing enhance the development process compared to traditional server management?
  • Serverless computing enhances the development process by eliminating the need for developers to manage server infrastructure. This allows them to focus solely on writing code and deploying applications quickly. Additionally, serverless platforms automatically scale resources based on demand and handle maintenance tasks, which streamlines workflows and accelerates deployment times compared to traditional methods.
• What are the implications of using serverless computing for resource allocation and cost management in application development?
  • Using serverless computing significantly impacts resource allocation and cost management by charging users only for the resources consumed during execution rather than for pre-allocated servers. This model allows businesses to optimize their operational expenses, as they can scale their application efficiently based on real-time demand without over-provisioning resources. Moreover, this flexibility fosters a more dynamic approach to budgeting for software projects.
• Evaluate how serverless computing fits into the broader trends of cloud computing and modern application development.
  • Serverless computing fits seamlessly into the broader trends of cloud computing by emphasizing agility, scalability, and cost efficiency. As more businesses adopt cloud-native architectures and microservices designs, serverless models enable teams to rapidly develop applications that respond quickly to changing market needs. This evolution reflects a shift towards more efficient resource utilization and reduced operational overheads in modern application development.

Related terms

Function as a Service (FaaS): A cloud computing service that allows users to run code in response to events without managing servers, charging only for the execution time.

Microservices: An architectural style that structures an application as a collection of small, loosely coupled services, which can be independently deployed and scaled.

Cloud Computing:

The delivery of computing services over the internet, including storage, processing power, and applications, on a pay-as-you-go basis.