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C4 Model for Software Architecture

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Overview

The C4 model is a powerful and pragmatic approach to visualizing software architecture across multiple levels of abstraction. It provides a standardized method for creating architecture diagrams that are both comprehensive and easy to understand.

Key Characteristics

  1. Hierarchical Abstractions

    • Provides a set of hierarchical abstractions for software systems
    • Includes four primary levels of detail:
      • Context
      • Containers
      • Components
      • Code

  2. Diagram Types

    • System Context Diagram
    • Container Diagram
    • Component Diagram
    • Code Diagram

  3. Design Principles

    • Notation Independent
    • Tooling Independent
    • Supports multiple diagramming tools and techniques

Abstraction Levels

1. Context Level

  • Provides a high-level view of the entire system
  • Shows system interactions with users and external systems
  • Focuses on the big picture and system boundaries

2. Container Level

  • Breaks down the system into major technology containers
  • Shows how different parts of the system are structured
  • Illustrates communication between containers

3. Component Level

  • Zooms into individual containers
  • Details major structural building blocks
  • Shows interactions between components within a container

4. Code Level

  • Most detailed view of the architecture
  • Represents how a component is implemented
  • Can use UML or other code-level diagramming techniques

Benefits

  • Improves communication about software architecture
  • Provides a consistent, standardized approach to documentation
  • Supports different levels of technical understanding
  • Facilitates better design and system comprehension

Resources

  • Official Website: C4 Model
  • Creator: Simon Brown

Backlinks

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