Scaling From Single Server to Distributed System
Many applications start on a single server. Over time, as usage grows, that server becomes a bottleneck. Scaling in a controlled way usually follows a series of steps rather than one big redesign.
First, optimize the existing system and add caching. Next, separate the database from the web server. Later, introduce load balancing, background workers and specialized services for things like search or reporting.
By following a staged approach and measuring each change, you can support growth without disrupting customers or rewriting the entire product at once.
