What is Cloud-Native Architecture?

When you build and run applications with the specific aim of designing them for cloud environments, this is what is called cloud-native architecture. It also involves a more modern approach, because these aren't traditional applications that are just deployed on-prem or physical servers to run. The advantage here is that such cloud-native applications can leverage the flexibility, scalability, and robust nature of cloud platforms.  

In its essence, cloud-native architecture involves technologies like serverless computing, microservices, and containerization. This is so that each application component or microservice can operate independently. The benefit here is that if something needs to be updated, scaled up, or even replaced, it can be done without affecting the entire system. For example, let's say that due to an ongoing Black Friday sale, an e-commerce application's payment service needs more capacity. Then, the developer only needs to scale up that particular microservice without disrupting other parts of the application, like the search or inventory. 

Another distinctive feature of cloud-native architecture is automation. Updates on cloud-native applications happen quickly and securely, thanks to Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines. As a result, the organization developing these applications often experience faster innovation cycles and the ability to better match with/meet user demands.  

In short, thanks to how they are built, cloud-native architecture leverages the potential of the cloud in a big way, which in turn helps businesses deliver scalable, high-performing, and reliable applications.