Understanding Layered Architecture

Although I had a grasp of various programming languages and problem-solving skills, I was unfamiliar with the concept of software architecture. Learning this aspect has been pivotal to my growth as a programmer. One of the simplest yet effective strategies is to organize your code into distinct layers. This not only lowers the complexity of your code but also enhances its maintainability. By tackling smaller issues rather than overwhelming ones, you can elevate your programming skills.

Should You Separate Your Code?

The answer is a resounding yes. When coding, it’s essential to address diverse problems, as they often intertwine. For instance, consider a simple login system for a website. This task encompasses multiple components:

• Creating a user-friendly front-end interface
• Validating user inputs to prevent attacks
• Connecting to a database for data storage

These components can be handled independently, meaning that changes in one aspect don’t necessarily affect the others. By breaking down larger problems into manageable parts, you can streamline your coding process.

Photo by Yosep Surahman on Unsplash

Benefits of Layering Your Code

Implementing a layered approach offers multiple advantages, including:

• Effectively solving problems
• Minimizing code interdependencies
• Enhancing code maintainability and readability
• Simplifying future code extensions
• Keeping files concise and organized
• Facilitating a better understanding of problem components
• Easing the testing process
• Adhering to SOLID principles

For those unfamiliar with SOLID principles, I recommend checking out this informative article:

SOLID Principles: Explained with Really Simple Real-Life Examples

Discover essential design principles that every developer should know to enhance code quality.

Steps to Separate Your Code

1. Dissect the Problem
   • When faced with a coding challenge, you have two choices:
     • Dive into coding without a plan, showcasing a lack of foresight.
     • Analyze the problem and categorize its various aspects, demonstrating your programming prowess.

The principle of separation of concerns is crucial here. Each component of your problem should reside in its own layer, allowing for clearer organization.

2. Establish a Code Structure
   • Once you've broken down the problem, create individual folders for each layer. Avoid mixing functionalities to maintain clean interactions between layers. Consider adopting established architectural patterns like MVC or hexagonal architecture tailored to your needs.

To illustrate, using the login example, you could either cram everything into one file or separate functionalities into distinct layers. By applying the MVC pattern, you would create separate layers for:

• Views (UI)

  • Controllers (input validation and business logic)
  • Models (data interaction)

This separation allows for easier debugging and modifications.