Proxy Server Load Balancing and Scaling: Optimizing Performance and Reliability

This blog post delves into the intricacies of proxy server load balancing and scaling, covering everything from an overview of proxy servers to detailed configuration steps, performance monitoring, security considerations, and real-world use cases. It encourages programmers to leverage this knowledge to create robust, high-performance systems and offers recommendations for further exploration in the topic.

In today's digital landscape, the demand for high-performing, scalable, and reliable web applications continues to grow exponentially. As a result, the need for efficient and effective load balancing and scaling solutions has become essential for software engineers and developers. One of the key mechanisms for achieving this is through the implementation of Proxy Server Load Balancing and Scaling.

In this blog post, we will explore the intricacies of Proxy Server Load Balancing and Scaling, diving into the technical aspects and best practices for achieving optimal performance and scalability. We will cover everything from the fundamental concepts of load balancing to the advanced techniques for scaling proxy servers, providing you with the knowledge and skills to become a proficient software engineer in this critical area. Whether you are a seasoned developer or just getting started, this post will equip you with the tools and know-how to navigate the complexities of load balancing and scaling with confidence. Let's embark on this journey to master the art of Proxy Server Load Balancing and Scaling.

Contents:

1. Overview of Proxy Servers
   - Definition and purpose of proxy servers
   - Types of proxy servers: forward, reverse, open, and transparent proxies
   - Role of proxy servers in load balancing and scaling

2. Load Balancing with Proxy Servers
   - Explanation of load balancing and its importance in distributing traffic
   - Introduction to proxy server load balancing algorithms: Round Robin, Least Connections, IP Hashing
   - Advantages of using a proxy server for load balancing

3. Scaling with Proxy Servers
   - Understanding the concept of scaling in the context of server architecture
   - How proxy servers facilitate horizontal and vertical scaling
   - Benefits of using proxy servers for scaling applications

4. Proxy Server Configuration for Load Balancing
   - Detailed steps for configuring a proxy server for load balancing (e.g., Nginx, HAProxy)
   - Discussing the use of health checks to monitor server status
   - Best practices for optimizing proxy server configurations for load balancing

5. Performance Monitoring and Optimization
   - Implementing monitoring tools to track server performance and detect bottlenecks
   - Techniques for optimizing proxy server load balancing to enhance performance
   - Discussing the role of caching in improving server performance

6. Security Considerations
   - Addressing security concerns related to using proxy servers for load balancing
   - Implementing SSL termination and encryption at the proxy level
   - Best practices for securing proxy server configurations

7. Real-world Use Cases and Examples
   - Case studies demonstrating the use of proxy server load balancing in large-scale applications
   - Examples of companies or organizations leveraging proxy servers for load balancing and scaling
   - Lessons learned and key takeaways from successful implementations

8. Conclusion and Next Steps
   - Recap of the benefits of using proxy server load balancing and scaling
   - Recommendations for further learning and exploration in this topic
   - Encouraging readers to implement proxy server load balancing in their own projects

1. Overview of Proxy Servers

As software engineers, we are often tasked with architecting systems that can handle a significant amount of traffic while maintaining high performance and availability. Proxy servers play a crucial role in achieving these goals by acting as intermediaries between clients and servers. Let's delve into the world of proxy servers, their types, and their significance in load balancing and scaling applications.

Definition and Purpose of Proxy Servers

A proxy server is a server that acts as an intermediary between clients and other servers. When a client sends a request to access a resource, the proxy server forwards the request to the targeted server on behalf of the client. The response from the server is then relayed back to the client. This mechanism helps in optimizing and securing the flow of traffic between clients and servers.

Types of Proxy Servers

Forward Proxies

Forward proxies, also known as web proxies, are deployed within a client's network to handle outgoing requests. They are commonly used to control and monitor internet access for a group of clients.

Reverse Proxies

Reverse proxies sit in front of servers and direct incoming requests to the appropriate backend server. They are often used for load balancing, caching, SSL encryption, and serving static content.

Open Proxies

Open proxies are publicly accessible proxy servers that can be used by any internet user. These types of proxies can pose security risks and are often abused for malicious purposes.

Transparent Proxies

Transparent proxies intercept network traffic without requiring any configuration on the client side. They are often used to enforce web access policies or for content caching.

Role of Proxy Servers in Load Balancing and Scaling

Proxy servers play an essential role in distributing incoming traffic across multiple backend servers, thus preventing any single server from becoming overwhelmed. Additionally, they enable scaling by allowing the system to accommodate increased traffic by adding more servers as needed. Understanding the intricacies of proxy server load balancing and scaling is pivotal for building robust and performant systems.

In the next sections, we will explore the concepts of load balancing and scaling in conjunction with proxy servers, delve into their configuration and optimization, and address the security considerations vital to their successful implementation in real-world applications.

Stay tuned for an in-depth exploration of proxy server load balancing and scaling to elevate your skills as a professional software engineer.

2. Load Balancing with Proxy Servers

In the world of distributed systems and high-traffic applications, load balancing plays a crucial role in efficiently distributing incoming requests across multiple servers. Proxy servers serve as a vital component in achieving this load balancing, ensuring optimal utilization of resources and high availability of services.

Explanation of Load Balancing

Load balancing involves the distribution of incoming network traffic across multiple backend servers, preventing any single server from becoming overwhelmed with requests. This practice not only enhances the performance and responsiveness of the application but also ensures fault tolerance and resilience.

Proxy Server Load Balancing Algorithms

Proxy servers employ various load balancing algorithms to evenly distribute the incoming traffic among the backend servers. These algorithms include:

Round Robin

The Round Robin algorithm distributes requests in a cyclic manner, sequentially assigning each new request to the next available server in the list.

Upstream backend_servers {
  server backend1.example.com;
  server backend2.example.com;
  server backend3.example.com;
}

Least Connections

The Least Connections algorithm directs new requests to the server with the fewest active connections, effectively balancing the load based on the current connections.

upstream backend_servers {
  least_conn;
  server backend1.example.com;
  server backend2.example.com;
  server backend3.example.com;
}

IP Hashing

With IP Hashing, the proxy server maps the client's IP address to a specific server, ensuring that subsequent requests from the same client are directed to the same server.

upstream backend_servers {
  ip_hash;
  server backend1.example.com;
  server backend2.example.com;
  server backend3.example.com;
}

Advantages of Using a Proxy Server for Load Balancing

By incorporating a proxy server for load balancing, developers can achieve several advantages:

Scalability: Proxy servers enable the easy addition or removal of backend servers, accommodating changes in traffic and scaling the infrastructure as needed.
High Availability: With load balancing, applications can maintain continuous operations even if some servers fail or become unavailable.
Flexibility: Proxy servers allow for the implementation of diverse load balancing algorithms, catering to specific workload and performance requirements.

In the next sections, we will delve further into the role of proxy servers in scaling and the practical configuration steps to leverage their load balancing capabilities effectively.

Stay tuned for the upcoming sections on scaling with proxy servers and the detailed configuration steps for implementing load balancing in real-world scenarios.

This section provides a comprehensive understanding of load balancing with proxy servers, emphasizing its significance and practical implementations for developers. It introduces the concept of load balancing and its algorithms, along with their code examples to aid in the reader's comprehension. The tone is professional and technical, addressing the target audience of programmers.

3. Scaling with Proxy Servers

In the world of software engineering, scaling is a critical aspect of server architecture. It involves the ability to handle an increasing amount of work by adding resources to the system. Proxy servers play a crucial role in facilitating scaling, both horizontally and vertically, and offer various benefits in this context.

Understanding Scaling in Server Architecture

Scaling in the context of server architecture refers to the capability of a system to handle a growing amount of work in a graceful and efficient manner. There are two primary approaches to scaling: horizontal scaling, which involves adding more machines to a pool of resources, and vertical scaling, which entails increasing the capacity of individual resources within a single machine.

Proxy servers can effectively manage scaling requirements by distributing incoming traffic across multiple servers, which is essential for maintaining the overall performance and reliability of the system as it grows.

Facilitating Horizontal and Vertical Scaling

Proxy servers facilitate horizontal scaling by distributing incoming requests among a pool of backend servers. This approach allows for the seamless addition of new servers to the pool as the demand for the application or service grows. Additionally, proxy servers support vertical scaling by efficiently utilizing the resources of individual backend servers, ensuring optimal performance without overloading any single server.

In scenarios where there is a need to handle a surge in traffic, proxy servers can dynamically allocate requests to available resources, thus preventing bottlenecks and ensuring that the system can support increased load without compromising performance.

Benefits of Using Proxy Servers for Scaling Applications

By incorporating proxy servers into the server architecture, developers can achieve a more scalable and resilient infrastructure. Proxy servers enhance the overall scalability of the system by balancing the workload across multiple servers, reducing the risk of server overload, and providing a seamless mechanism for adding new resources to accommodate growth.

Furthermore, proxy servers offer a layer of abstraction that shields the backend servers from direct exposure to the external traffic, allowing for easier management and maintenance of the infrastructure as the system scales.

upstream backend_servers {
  server backend1.example.com;
  server backend2.example.com;
  server backend3.example.com;
}

The above configuration in Nginx demonstrates how to define a pool of backend servers that can be dynamically scaled by adding more server entries as the system expands.

In conclusion, the use of proxy servers for scaling applications offers significant advantages in managing the increasing demands placed on server infrastructure. Whether it is horizontal scaling by adding more servers to distribute the workload or vertical scaling by efficiently utilizing server resources, proxy servers play a pivotal role in ensuring the scalability and performance of modern applications and services.

By understanding the capabilities of proxy servers in facilitating scaling, software engineers can empower themselves to build robust and scalable systems that can adapt to the evolving needs of the digital landscape.

4. Proxy Server Configuration for Load Balancing

Configuring a proxy server for load balancing is a crucial step in ensuring efficient distribution of traffic across multiple backend servers. In this section, we will dive into the detailed steps for configuring a proxy server, namely Nginx and HAProxy, to facilitate load balancing. We will also discuss the use of health checks to monitor server status and best practices for optimizing proxy server configurations for load balancing.

Configuring Nginx for Load Balancing

Nginx is a popular choice for setting up a proxy server for load balancing due to its high performance and flexibility. To configure Nginx for load balancing, you can start by defining upstream server blocks in the Nginx configuration file. These upstream blocks specify the backend servers that Nginx will load balance traffic to.

http {
    upstream backend_servers {
        server backend1.example.com;
        server backend2.example.com;
        server backend3.example.com;
    }

    server {
        location / {
            proxy_pass http://backend_servers;
        }
    }
}

In the example above, the upstream block defines a group of backend servers, and the server blocks within the upstream block specify the individual backend server addresses. The proxy_pass directive inside the location block directs incoming requests to the defined upstream servers, thereby enabling load balancing.

Configuring HAProxy for Load Balancing

HAProxy is another widely used solution for proxy server load balancing. Configuring HAProxy involves defining frontend and backend sections in the configuration file. The frontend section specifies the incoming traffic, while the backend section defines the backend servers to which the traffic will be directed.

frontend http_front
    bind *:80
    default_backend http_back

backend http_back
    balance roundrobin
    server server1 backend1.example.com:80 check
    server server2 backend2.example.com:80 check
    server server3 backend3.example.com:80 check

In the HAProxy configuration above, the frontend block binds to port 80 for incoming traffic, and the backend block defines the backend servers and load balancing algorithm (in this case, round-robin). The server lines specify the backend server addresses and the check option enables health checks to monitor the server status.

Health Checks for Server Monitoring

Health checks play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability of backend servers in a load balancing setup. Both Nginx and HAProxy allow the implementation of health checks to monitor the status of backend servers and remove them from the rotation if they are deemed unhealthy.

In Nginx, health checks can be implemented using the nginx_http_healthcheck_module by periodically sending requests to backend servers and evaluating their responses. Similarly, HAProxy provides health checking capabilities through the option httpchk directive, which allows for regular HTTP health checks to be performed on backend servers.

Optimizing Proxy Server Configurations

To optimize proxy server configurations for load balancing, it is essential to consider factors such as connection timeouts, buffer sizes, and resource utilization. Tuning parameters such as the maximum number of connections, connection timeouts, and load balancing algorithms can significantly impact the performance and reliability of the proxy server.

Additionally, leveraging caching mechanisms at the proxy server level can further enhance performance by serving cached content directly from the proxy server, reducing the load on backend servers and improving response times for clients.

In conclusion, configuring proxy servers for load balancing is a fundamental aspect of building scalable and high-performing backend infrastructures. By following the best practices and utilizing the capabilities of proxy server software such as Nginx and HAProxy, developers can effectively distribute traffic, monitor server health, and optimize performance to meet the demands of modern web applications.

5. Performance Monitoring and Optimization

In the realm of proxy server load balancing and scaling, performance monitoring and optimization play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of distributed systems. By implementing robust monitoring tools and employing optimization techniques, software engineers can enhance the efficiency and responsiveness of their applications.

Implementing Monitoring Tools

To effectively track server performance and identify potential bottlenecks, it is essential to implement monitoring tools that provide comprehensive insights into the behavior of the proxy servers and backend systems. Tools such as Prometheus, Grafana, and Datadog offer powerful capabilities for monitoring various metrics including server CPU usage, memory utilization, network traffic, and request latency.

# Example installation of monitoring tools using Prometheus and Grafana
$ curl -LO https://github.com/prometheus/prometheus/releases/download/v2.33.0/prometheus-2.33.0.linux-amd64.tar.gz
$ tar xvfz prometheus-2.33.0.linux-amd64.tar.gz
$ cd prometheus-2.33.0.linux-amd64
$ ./prometheus

# Installation of Grafana
$ sudo yum install -y https://dl.grafana.com/oss/release/grafana-8.3.3-1.x86_64.rpm

By collecting and visualizing these metrics, engineers can gain valuable insights into performance patterns, anticipate potential issues, and make informed decisions to optimize the load balancing configuration.

Optimization Techniques

In the pursuit of improved performance, there are several optimization techniques that can be employed to fine-tune proxy server load balancing. One such technique involves optimizing the load balancing algorithm based on the characteristics of the application traffic. For instance, if the application experiences varying levels of traffic intensity, dynamically adjusting the load balancing algorithm to favor certain backend servers can alleviate congestion and improve response times.

Additionally, leveraging caching mechanisms within the proxy server can significantly enhance performance by storing frequently accessed data and reducing the load on backend servers. By implementing caching policies and strategically caching static content, such as images and CSS files, engineers can mitigate the impact of high traffic volumes and accelerate content delivery to clients.

Role of Caching

Caching plays a pivotal role in improving server performance by reducing the latency associated with retrieving data from backend servers. When implementing a proxy server for load balancing, incorporating caching mechanisms not only alleviates the load on backend resources but also optimizes the overall response time for client requests. Utilizing caching directives and cache-control headers, engineers can fine-tune the caching behavior to align with the specific requirements of their applications.

By effectively monitoring performance metrics, applying optimization techniques, and harnessing the benefits of caching, software engineers can elevate the performance of their proxy server load balancing infrastructure, enabling seamless and efficient distribution of traffic across the application backend.

This comprehensive approach to performance monitoring and optimization is instrumental in maintaining the reliability and responsiveness of distributed systems, empowering engineers to deliver high-performing applications at scale.

In conclusion, the meticulous attention to performance monitoring and optimization in the context of proxy server load balancing and scaling is pivotal to achieving optimal system performance and advancing the capabilities of modern application architectures.

Utilizing monitoring tools, applying optimization techniques, and harnessing caching mechanisms collectively contribute to a robust and efficient load balancing infrastructure, laying the foundation for scalable and high-performance applications. As software engineers continue to navigate the complexities of distributed systems, the strategic application of these principles will undoubtedly shape the future of resilient and responsive software architectures.

6. Security Considerations

As a software engineer, it's crucial to prioritize security when implementing proxy server load balancing. The use of proxy servers introduces potential vulnerabilities that need to be addressed to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of the traffic passing through the servers. In this section, we'll delve into the key security considerations and best practices for securing proxy server configurations.

Addressing Security Concerns

When employing proxy servers for load balancing, it's essential to recognize and mitigate security risks. These risks include potential exposure of sensitive data, unauthorized access to backend servers, and the possibility of malicious attacks targeting the proxy infrastructure. By acknowledging these concerns, developers can implement robust security measures to safeguard the proxy server environment.

Implementing SSL Termination and Encryption

One of the fundamental security practices when utilizing proxy servers for load balancing is the implementation of SSL termination. SSL termination involves decrypting incoming HTTPS traffic at the proxy server before forwarding it to the backend servers. This process allows the proxy server to inspect and manipulate the traffic, improving performance and enabling additional security features such as intrusion detection and prevention systems.

Here's a simple example of configuring SSL termination in an Nginx proxy server:

server {
    listen 443 ssl;
    server_name example.com;

    ssl_certificate /path/to/certificate.crt;
    ssl_certificate_key /path/to/private.key;

    location / {
        proxy_pass http://backend_servers;
    }
}

In this configuration, the proxy server terminates the SSL connection and forwards the decrypted traffic to the specified backend servers. It's imperative to manage SSL certificates securely and keep them up to date to maintain the confidentiality of the communication.

Best Practices for Securing Proxy Server Configurations

Securing proxy server configurations involves following best practices to minimize the attack surface and fortify the infrastructure against potential threats. This includes implementing strong access controls, regularly updating and patching the proxy server software, and employing measures such as rate limiting and request filtering to mitigate DDoS attacks and prevent abuse.

Additionally, maintaining comprehensive logging and auditing mechanisms on the proxy servers enables the monitoring of traffic patterns, the identification of potential security incidents, and the tracing of unauthorized access attempts. By adhering to best practices and continually evaluating and enhancing security measures, organizations can confidently leverage proxy servers for load balancing while minimizing security risks.

In the next section, we will explore real-world use cases and examples to demonstrate the practical application of proxy server load balancing in large-scale environments.

Remember, adopting a security-first mindset and staying informed about emerging security threats are essential pillars of a professional software engineer's approach to proxy server load balancing and scaling.

The post will continue with the rest of the outlined sections, maintaining a professional and technically detailed tone to provide comprehensive guidance on proxy server load balancing and scaling.

7. Real-world Use Cases and Examples

Proxy server load balancing and scaling are not just theoretical concepts; they are critical components of the infrastructure for many large-scale applications. Let's delve into some real-world use cases and examples to understand how proxy servers play a pivotal role in these scenarios.

Case Studies Demonstrating Proxy Server Load Balancing

Case Study 1: E-commerce Platform

Consider a popular e-commerce platform that experiences a surge in traffic during peak shopping seasons. To ensure high availability and optimal performance, the platform utilizes proxy server load balancing. By distributing incoming traffic across multiple backend servers, the platform can handle concurrent user requests efficiently.

The proxy server employs advanced load balancing algorithms such as Round Robin or IP Hashing to evenly distribute the load, thereby preventing any single server from becoming overwhelmed. This approach not only enhances the platform's reliability but also improves its responsiveness, providing a seamless shopping experience for users even during high-traffic periods.

Case Study 2: Cloud-based SaaS Application

A cloud-based Software as a Service (SaaS) application catering to a global user base relies on proxy server load balancing to achieve scalability and fault tolerance. The application is hosted across multiple data centers, and the proxy server acts as a central point for routing traffic to the closest data center based on the user's geographical location.

By leveraging a combination of load balancing and geographic proximity, the SaaS application ensures low latency and high throughput for users around the world. The proxy server dynamically adjusts the routing of incoming requests based on the current availability and performance of the backend servers, enabling the application to seamlessly handle fluctuations in demand while maintaining optimal performance.

Examples of Companies Leveraging Proxy Servers for Load Balancing and Scaling

Example 1: Netflix

Netflix, a leading streaming service, relies on proxy server load balancing to manage the immense volume of streaming traffic it receives globally. By strategically distributing incoming requests across its server infrastructure, Netflix is able to deliver uninterrupted streaming experiences to millions of users simultaneously.

Netflix's proxy server setup utilizes intelligent algorithms to route traffic based on server availability and location, ensuring that users experience minimal buffering and maximum video quality. This approach enables Netflix to scale its services effectively while maintaining a high level of reliability and performance.

Example 2: Dropbox

Dropbox, a file hosting service, utilizes proxy server load balancing to manage its extensive network of servers and storage infrastructure. By balancing the incoming traffic across multiple data centers and servers, Dropbox ensures that user requests are efficiently handled, even during periods of high demand.

The proxy server's ability to dynamically adjust the distribution of traffic based on server capacity and performance enables Dropbox to achieve horizontal scalability, effectively expanding its infrastructure to accommodate growing user base and workload demands.

Lessons Learned and Key Takeaways

These real-world examples demonstrate the critical role that proxy server load balancing and scaling play in ensuring the performance, scalability, and reliability of large-scale applications. By effectively distributing traffic and managing server resources, proxy servers empower organizations to deliver seamless experiences to their users while handling dynamic workloads and scaling their infrastructure as needed.

From these cases, we learn the importance of thoughtful architecture design and the strategic implementation of proxy server load balancing to handle the complexities of a high-traffic and geographically distributed user base.

As software engineers, understanding these use cases can inspire us to leverage proxy server load balancing and scaling techniques to architect robust and scalable systems for our own applications.

In conclusion, the use of proxy servers for load balancing and scaling is a critical aspect of modern software architecture, and by studying these real-world examples, we gain valuable insights into the practical applications of these concepts.

By exploring real-world case studies and examples, we gain a deeper understanding of how proxy server load balancing and scaling are employed in large-scale applications. These scenarios provide valuable insights for software engineers looking to implement similar strategies in their own projects.

8. Conclusion and Next Steps

In conclusion, we have explored the critical role of proxy server load balancing and scaling in modern server architecture. By leveraging proxy servers, software engineers can effectively distribute traffic, optimize performance, and enhance the security of their applications.

Recap of the Benefits

Using proxy server load balancing provides numerous benefits, including: - Efficient distribution of incoming traffic across multiple servers to prevent overload and downtime - Scalability through horizontal and vertical expansion of server resources to accommodate growing user demand - Enhanced security features, such as SSL termination and encryption, to protect sensitive data - Monitoring and optimization tools that allow for fine-tuning server performance and addressing potential bottlenecks - Overall improvement in the reliability and availability of applications

Recommendations for Further Learning

To further deepen your understanding of proxy server load balancing and scaling, consider the following next steps:

Exploration of Advanced Load Balancing Algorithms: Dive deeper into load balancing algorithms and their impact on traffic distribution. Explore more intricate algorithms such as weighted round-robin or least response time.
Implementation of Microservices Architecture: Learn how proxy servers play a crucial role in supporting microservices architecture by routing traffic to various microservices based on specific criteria.
Experimentation with Container Orchestration Platforms: Gain knowledge about integrating proxy servers with container orchestration platforms like Kubernetes or Docker Swarm to manage and scale containerized applications effectively.
Hands-On Configuration and Optimization: Practice configuring and optimizing proxy server load balancing setups using popular tools like Nginx, HAProxy, or Apache.

Encouragement for Implementation

I highly encourage you to apply the concepts and techniques covered in this post to real-world projects. By implementing proxy server load balancing and scaling in your applications, you can create robust, high-performance systems that can handle substantial traffic while ensuring reliability and security.

Remember, continuous learning, experimentation, and practical application are key to becoming proficient in software engineering. Embrace the challenges and opportunities presented by proxy server load balancing and scaling, and elevate your skills as a professional software engineer.

Now, it's time to take the knowledge you've gained and put it into action. Start exploring, experimenting, and implementing proxy server load balancing and scaling in your projects, and witness the transformative impact it can have on your applications.

Happy coding, and may your servers always remain scalable, reliable, and secure!

I hope the conclusion and next steps provide clear guidance and motivation for programmers to delve deeper into the world of proxy server load balancing and scaling. Let me know if there are any other details or information you would like to add!

We have covered the following key points: - Overview and types of proxy servers - Load balancing with proxy servers and the associated algorithms - Scaling with proxy servers, both horizontally and vertically - Detailed configuration steps for Nginx and HAProxy - Importance of performance monitoring and optimization - Security considerations and best practices

If you found this information valuable, we encourage you to dive deeper into advanced load balancing algorithms, microservices architecture, container orchestration platforms, and hands-on configuration and optimization of proxy servers.

We highly encourage you to apply the concepts and techniques covered in this post to real-world projects. By implementing proxy server load balancing and scaling in your applications, you can create robust, high-performance systems that can handle substantial traffic while ensuring reliability and security.

So, take the knowledge you've gained and put it into action. Start exploring, experimenting, and implementing proxy server load balancing and scaling in your projects, and witness the transformative impact it can have on your applications.

We'd love to hear about your experiences with proxy server load balancing and scaling. Feel free to share your thoughts, ask questions, or suggest further reading in the comments below. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more insightful content on software engineering and system architecture.

Happy coding, and may your servers always remain scalable, reliable, and secure!