52 Weeks of Cloud

What is Function as a Service?

Episode Summary

This episode explores Function as a Service (FaaS), a key component of serverless technology. It explains the simplicity and scalability of FaaS, using examples like AWS Lambda to illustrate its applications. It also highlights the advantages of using modern compiled languages like Rust for serverless computing, emphasizing the importance of long-term maintenance, cost efficiency, and energy use in FaaS development.

Episode Notes

Function as a Service (FaaS): Core Building Block of Serverless Technology

What is FaaS?

• Simplest unit of work for building applications, microservices, or event-driven protocols
• Basic workflow: Input → Logic → Output

Characteristics of FaaS

• Simple and easily understandable
• Highly scalable
• Quick response time

Popular FaaS Framework: AWS Lambda

• Can be attached to various services:
  • S3 notifications (e.g., file uploads)
  • SQS (Simple Queue Service) messages
• Enables building infinitely scalable services with small response times

Best Languages for Serverless/FaaS

1. Rust
2. Go

Advantages of Modern Compiled Languages for FaaS

• Speed
• Safety
• Optimal deployment characteristics
• Millisecond response and invocation times
• Low energy usage

Key Considerations for FaaS Development

• Focus on maintenance over ease of building
• Optimize for low costs (financial and energy)
• Consider total cost of service over time

Takeaway

When developing Function as a Service applications, prioritize long-term efficiency, maintenance, and cost-effectiveness over initial development ease. Choose languages and practices that support these goals in a serverless environment.