architecture-patterns

Structure a backend using hexagonal architecture by isolating core domain logic from infrastructure through ports and adapters. This pattern enforces dependency inward, allowing easy swapping of databases and external services while maintaining clear boundaries for complex systems.

Clean Architecture focuses on structured layering and dependency inversion to separate domain logic from frameworks. Domain-Driven Design emphasizes domain-centric modeling and complex system boundaries. Both patterns isolate core logic but differ in modeling approach and structural emphasis.

You need Domain-Driven Design when designing complex backend systems that require strict domain-centric modeling and clear separation of concerns. It solves problems like tightly coupled code and difficult testing by isolating core domain logic from infrastructure and frameworks.

Yes, Clean Architecture helps with swapping databases by applying the port-and-adapter pattern to isolate infrastructure dependencies. This enforces dependency inward, ensuring core domain logic remains independent of specific database implementations and external services.

Hexagonal architecture introduces limitations through increased boilerplate and structural complexity from defining multiple ports and adapters. It is less suited for simple backend systems where the overhead of strict layering and domain-centric modeling outweighs maintainability benefits.