15 Serverless Computing Interview Questions and Answers

Introduction

Dive into the revolutionary realm of serverless computing with our latest blog series! Explore how this paradigm shift reshapes development, unleashes unparalleled scalability, and allows businesses to focus on innovation. 

Q1- What is Serverless?

Ans. Serverless means you don’t have to worry about managing a server. Instead of a fixed amount of server space, you only pay for the computing power you use. 

It makes it easier for developers to focus on writing code without dealing with server management. The cloud provider manages the infrastructure behind the scenes. Serverless is similar to a pay-as-you-go counting system, making it more flexible, scalable, and cost-effective.

Serverless means you don’t have to worry about managing a server. Instead of a fixed amount of server space, you only pay for the computing power you use. This makes it easier for developers to focus on writing code without dealing with server management. The cloud provider manages the infrastructure behind the scenes. Serverless is similar to a pay-as-you-go counting system, making it more flexible, scalable, and cost-effective.

Q2- Explain the Different Components of a Serverless Architecture.

Ans. The serverless configuration has several key features:

Applications/Serverless Applications: These are the units used in Serverless architecture.

Code snippets or tasks that perform specific tasks.

executed in response to events or triggers.

Events/Triggers: Projects are initiated by events.

Examples are HTTP requests, database changes, file uploads, or scheduled times.

Events determine when businesses should run.

Census Services: These are accounting objects provided by the cloud provider for workflow.

Resources are allocated dynamically as tasks progress.

Examples are AWS Lambda, Azure Services, or Google Cloud Services.

The API Gateway: It acts as a bridge between external applications and Serverless services.

Monitors HTTP requests and directs them to appropriate actions.

Storage: To ensure consistent data between function executions.

Examples are object storage services such as Amazon S3 or Azure Blob Storage.

Database Services: Collect and process data.

Serverless databases scale automatically and only charge for actual usage.

Examples are AWS DynamoDB, Azure Cosmos DB, or Google Cloud Firestore.

Authenticity and Empowerment: Oversees operations and resource acquisition.

Ensure that only authorized users or programs can trigger or interact with activities.

Surveying and Logging: Tools for monitoring the performance and behavior of Serverless services.

Examples include AWS CloudWatch, Azure Application Insights, and Google Cloud Logging.

Identity and Resource Management (IAM): Manages permissions and access for Serverless services.

Specify functions that can call modify and access associated objects.

Q3 What Are Some Common Use Cases for Serverless Applications That You Know Of?

Ans. Serverless applications are like smart assistants that perform tasks when needed, triggered by events like file uploads or user registrations. 

They are ideal for routine tasks like sending emails or handling changes to databases. Think of it as a toolbox for a variety of tasks that don’t need a fixed home; It jumps right in when it needs to do a task, making it smooth and flexible.

Q4 What Do You Understand About Stateful vs Stateless Services in Serverless Computing?

Ans. In serverless computing, stateful vs stateless services refer to whether or not a given service maintains any state information. 

A stateless service does not store state information, while a stateless service maintains state information. The main difference between the two is that the management of public enterprises can be more complex, as state affairs must be managed. However stateful services can also provide users with a more consistent experience since information can be recalled from session to session.

Q5 What Is Your Experience With Serverless Databases Like Amazon Aurora, Mongodb Atlas, or AWS Dynamodb?

Ans. I have hands-on experience with three databases: MongoDB Atlas, Amazon Aurora, and AWS DynamoDB. Of these, I prefer MongoDB Atlas because of its user-friendly interface. However, I’ve also been able to successfully use Amazon Aurora and AWS DynamoDB in past projects, demonstrating versatility in managing database systems.

Q6 What’s the Difference Between Lambda and Ecs in the Context of AWS?

Ans. Lambda is like a magical serverless place where you can code without worrying about servers. It’s effortless—no server configuration or implementation. ECS is also your container guru on AWS. It helps to move and treat containers like boxes that look great for your applications. So, Lambda is for code, and ECS is for characters, each making life easier in its own way on Amazon’s cloud playground.

Q7 What Are the Advantages of Using Serverless Over Other Architectures?

Ans. Serverless is like an investment-friendly superhero in the tech world. It rocks in terms of savings because, unlike other plans, you only pay for what you use. 

Plus, it’s a scalability champion, effortlessly handling multiple visitors without breaking a sweat. So, it’s not just cost-effective; It’s also super flexible and ready for anything.

Q8 What Is the “Cold Start” Time? How Can It Be Reduced?

Ans. The "cold start" period is similar to waking up a dormant serverless job. Once you’re asleep, it’s time to start running when needed, which leads to procrastination. To prevent this, you can always have a "warm" container ready for bedtime or use a "hot" container, starting before it's really necessary Consider having your morning coffee ready so you can jump into action quickly!

Q8 What Is the “Cold Start” Time? How Can It Be Reduced?

Ans. The "cold start" period is similar to waking up a dormant serverless job. Once you’re asleep, it’s time to start running when needed, which leads to procrastination. To prevent this, you can always have a "warm" container ready for bedtime or use a "hot" container, starting before it's really necessary Consider having your morning coffee ready so you can jump into action quickly!

Q9 What Is Elastic Scaling? When Will It Occur?

Ans. Elastic scaling in serverless computing is like a dynamic team that resizes based on performance. It automatically increases or decreases, responding to changes in demand, whether real-time or ad hoc. This feature is like a wizard that saves money, improves productivity, and increases performance and availability as needed. It ensures that your system is always sized appropriately for the task at hand, making it more efficient and cost-effective.

Q 10 What do you understand by event-driven functions? Have you ever written one before?

Ans . Event-driven applications are like superheroes waiting for a signal—they spring into action when a specific event occurs, such as a button click or HTTP request Although I’ve done event-driven applications before it's worth noting that I haven't done that specifically in a serverless designed system. I seem to have a team that handles tasks only when needed, and I’m excited to explore how this dynamic works in a serverless environment.

Q11 What Are Some Best Practices to Follow When Creating a Serverless Application?

Ans. Some best practices to follow when creating a Serverless application include: – Avoid using shared resources

– Use a messaging system to communicate between functions

– Use a distributed tracing system to debug your application

– Handle errors gracefully

Q12 What Are Some Examples of Real-World Products That Run on Serverless Platforms?

Ans. Many real-world products use Serverless platforms for their functionality. Here are a few examples:

Netflix: The streaming giant uses Serverless for various tasks, such as encoding and thumbnail generation.

Airbnb: Parts of Airbnb’s infrastructure, particularly those used to process event-driven tasks such as user uploads, are built on Serverless architecture.

Slack: Some features in Slack, such as file uploads and notifications, are driven by Serverless projects.

Trello: Trello uses Serverless to handle backend tasks and automation.

Pokémon Go: Niantic, the company behind Pokémon Go, uses Serverless for aspects such as user authentication and in-game event management.

One capital: The financial services industry uses Serverless for a variety of applications including fraud detection and customer service.

Q13 Is It Possible to Replace Traditional Web-Based Apps With Serverless Applications? If Yes, Then Why Would Someone Want to Do This?

Ans. Yes, it is possible to replace traditional web-based applications with Serverless applications. Imagine replacing your usual web apps with super smart ones—serverless apps. why? They are a much easier and cheaper option. Instead of paying a fixed amount, you only pay for what you use. Plus, it’s like having a magical server that adapts to your needs without you having to do anything. It’s all about being affordable and easy to change!

Q14 Are There Any Limitations to Using Serverless That You’re Aware Of?

Ans. Serverless computing is like working in a shared computer lab; it's convenient, however, you might encounter sudden troubles if someone else's code misbehaves. Similarly, using an exceptional kitchen range analogy, your code in a serverless environment wishes to be carefully controlled, as there's no assurance it will continually work seamlessly at the platform. So, even as serverless removes the hassle of server control, it is vital to be aware of the shared nature and make certain code compatibility for clean enjoyment.

Q15 What Is a Function as a Service (Faas)? Why Is It Important in Serverless Environments?

Ans. Function as a Service (FaaS) is a cloud computing paradigm within serverless environments that lets developers execute personal features or pieces of code in reaction to events, without the want to manipulate the underlying infrastructure. In FaaS, developers write functions, and the cloud company takes care of the infrastructure, automatically scaling and coping with the execution of those capabilities as wanted. FaaS is crucial in serverless environments because it aligns with the center precept of abstracting away server management. It allows builders to recognize completely writing code for precise features, responding to occasions, and reaching enterprise good judgment without the overhead of provisioning or preserving servers. FaaS enhances agility, scalability, and fee effectiveness, making it a key thing in the serverless computing model.

Conclusion

In the end, understanding serverless computing is essential for navigating the modern tech panorama. With its pay-as-you-cross model, scalability, and efficient aid allocation, serverless architecture offers extraordinary blessings for corporations. Mastering the intricacies of serverless computing is critical for developers and IT specialists. To benefit from comprehensive insights and stay ahead in this dynamic discipline, consider enrolling in the JanBask Training AWS Certification Course.