Design a system (initially one node/server) that could handle requests on the scale of millions. It should return a unique id for each request (The id should be unique in sense that there would be o
MediumLet's imagine we're building a simplified version of a server that handles incoming requests. Initially, we're only concerned with a single server node. The goal is to design the core components of this server in a way that allows it to handle requests efficiently and, more importantly, allows us to easily extend its functionality in the future as the system scales and new requirements emerge. We're not focusing on distributed systems aspects like sharding or load balancing yet. Instead, we're focused on the internal architecture of this server node.
Think of it like building a versatile foundation for a skyscraper. We need strong OOD principles, well-defined interfaces, and design patterns to ensure the server's internal structure is robust, maintainable, and easily adaptable to future demands.
This problem is about designing a request handling system, not about building a full-fledged web server with networking, OS-level threading, or full HTTP protocol implementation. Focus on the request lifecycle from receipt to response and how different components cooperate.
Requirements
Interview Simulation
Experience a realistic interview conversation. The interviewer will ask clarifying questions,and you'll reveal your understanding of the requirements.
Let's start by understanding the scope. What are the core functionalities this system needs to provide?
💡 Interview Tip
Identify the Actors (Who uses the system?) and their Use Cases (What are they trying to achieve?). Start with the 'Happy Path' scenarios.