The modular monolith, an underrated option
Between the classic monolith and microservices lies a third, often ideal path: the modular monolith, also known as the majestic monolith.
1 min read
Everyone knows microservices and monoliths. But do we know the modular monolith, sometimes called the majestic monolith? Every architecture has its strengths and weaknesses, and this one might just be the ideal fit for many projects.
Three approaches, three trade-offs
The monolith is a large application where functions call each other inside the same program. Its strengths: simplicity, ease of development, and costs often lower than microservices.
Microservices are small, independent programs that can be called separately. They offer independence, scalability, easy updates and reusability — but at a higher cost.
The modular monolith is a hybrid: it’s structured as if each module were a microservice, while still living inside a single program.
The best of both worlds
This approach combines low-cost development with the ability to later turn a module into a microservice if the need arises. You keep the simplicity of the monolith without closing the door on evolution.
Before splitting a system into microservices from day one, it’s often worth asking whether a well-modularized monolith would serve the real need better.