hexagonal-architecture

Hexagonal architecture isolates core business logic by defining explicit boundaries between the domain and external systems. It uses driving and driven ports to separate domain logic from infrastructure, improving testability and maintainability.

To structure a project using ports and adapters, identify the domain boundaries first, then model driving and driven ports with corresponding adapters. This workflow separates domain logic from infrastructure for API, CLI, and background job workflows.

Hexagonal architecture supports refactoring existing systems by enforcing boundaries across API, CLI, and queue delivery mechanisms without coupling. It defines domain, ports, and adapters to isolate core logic during architecture reviews.

The best way to detect architectural drift is using provided drift detection patterns that identify and remediate boundary violations between the domain and infrastructure. These patterns enforce clear separation during architecture reviews.

Hexagonal architecture improves testability by isolating core domain logic from infrastructure concerns. Domain logic can be tested without external dependencies through explicit ports and adapters, ensuring clear boundaries are maintained.

Hexagonal architecture may not suit simple systems where infrastructure coupling is minimal. Its ports and adapters pattern adds structural overhead, so projects without complex domain logic or multiple delivery mechanisms may not benefit from enforcing these boundaries.