Monolithic Architecture

A monolithic architecture is a way of building software where all parts of the application---such as the user interface, business logic, and data management---are tightly integrated into one single system. Everything is developed, deployed, and scaled together.

This approach can be simple to start with: one codebase, one deployment, fewer moving parts. It works well for small products, early-stage teams, or when quick delivery matters more than flexibility.

Compared to microservices, monoliths can become harder to manage as products grow. Even small changes might require deploying the whole system, which can slow down releases and increase risk. Microservices, by contrast, break the product into independent parts, making it easier to develop and scale features separately.

While monoliths aren't "bad," they often trade flexibility and speed at scale for simplicity and ease at the beginning. The key is choosing the right approach for your product's stage and complexity.