Definition
N-tier architecture is an architecture model that separates software functionality into distinct tiers. Each tier handles specific tasks to maintain standardized and scalable application designs.
Layers of N-tier Architecture
A typical 3-tier model comprises of:
- Presentation tier: Displays data and captures user input, serving as the user interface layer.
- Business logic tier (application layer): This tier processes user input, enforces rules, and manages data storage and display.
- Data access tier: Interacts with databases or other data sources to recover and store data.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using N-tier Architecture
Pros
- Independent scaling: Each tier can be scaled separately based on demand.
- Decoupled impact: Changes in one tier may not affect others, easing updates and bug fixes.
- Security Isolation: Segregating functionalities helps contain potential security breaches.
Cons
- Complexity: Managing multiple tiers is intricate and demands specialized expertise.
- Latency: Data transfer between tiers causes latency.
- Infrastructure demands: Requires more resources and infrastructure, unlike simpler architectures.
N-tier Architecture Examples
- Online banking system: N-tier architecture contains mechanisms for securing transactions and scalability, thus improving management.
- E-commerce platforms: The N-tier structure applied to the e-commerce platforms supports the feasibility of concurrently managing huge traffic and transactions by separating layers of presentation, business logic, and data access levels.
- Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems: ERP systems use N-tier architecture to structure activities, ensure integration, and facilitate flexibility and scalability for core business processes such as accounting, procurement and HR.