Serverless Glossary

A digital receptionist that receives requests from users and routes them to the right place. It handles security checks and manages traffic without requiring any servers.

Small pieces of code that run only when needed. Like on-demand workers that wake up, do their job, and go back to sleep - so you only pay when they're actually working.

A database that automatically grows as your data grows. It's like a self-organizing filing cabinet that expands as needed and can find any file in milliseconds.

Simple, reliable file storage. Think of it as unlimited digital filing cabinets where you can store any type of file, from tiny documents to huge videos.

A global network that delivers your content faster. Like having copies of your website in cities all around the world, so users always get it from somewhere nearby.

A message queue service that lets different parts of your application communicate. Like a to-do list that ensures tasks get done in order, even if there's a delay.

A notification service that can alert multiple recipients at once. Like sending a group text message to different people or systems simultaneously.

A service that detects events and triggers actions. Like a smart home system that turns on the lights when you open the door.

A service that coordinates multiple steps in a workflow. Like a recipe that guides you through a sequence of steps to prepare a meal.

Handles user sign-up, sign-in, and access control. Like a security team that verifies IDs and ensures people can only access what they're allowed to.

Identity and Access Management. Like an ID badge system that controls exactly what each person or service can access and do.

Key Management Service. A system for creating and managing encryption keys. Like a sophisticated lock system that protects your sensitive data.

A monitoring service that keeps track of your applications. Like security cameras and sensors that alert you when something unusual happens.

A service that creates and configures AWS resources automatically. Like having a construction crew that builds everything according to your blueprints.

A way to build applications without managing servers. You focus on writing code, while AWS handles all the infrastructure automatically.

The brief delay when a serverless function runs for the first time. Like a car that needs a moment to warm up after sitting unused.

A billing model where you only pay for the resources you actually use. Like a utility bill that charges only for the electricity you consume.

The ability to automatically adjust resources based on demand. Like a restaurant that instantly adds more chefs when more customers arrive.

A service that securely stores and manages sensitive information like passwords. Like a digital safe for your most important credentials.

A special queue for messages that couldn't be processed successfully. Like a separate folder for problem cases that need special attention.