In today's dynamic ecommerce landscape, customers access websites through various devices, each with its unique specifications. The constant evolution of product content and the demand for seamless digital experiences add complexity to the development process. Moreover, managing large volumes of customer data and catering to immersive digital experiences further intensify the challenge.
Customers, in turn, expect instant results and have little patience for delays. A single moment of inconvenience could result in lost opportunities.
However, amidst these challenges, the silver lining emerges in the form of DevOps—a powerful solution that can revolutionize ecommerce growth. In this material, we explore how adopting a DevOps framework empowers businesses to scale faster while ensuring reliability and resilience.
<h3>Understanding DevOps: Speeding up eCommerce Success</h3>
DevOps is a comprehensive methodology that combines philosophies, practices, and tools to empower organizations to deliver applications and services at high velocity. By adopting a DevOps framework, companies can accelerate product development and launches, surpassing traditional software development approaches. The faster you can bring new products to the market, the greater your market share will be.
Breaking down silos between development, operations, and security teams lies at the core of the DevOps model. Some companies even merge these teams to foster seamless collaboration throughout the entire application lifecycle, from development and testing to deployment and maintenance.
This shift to a DevOps methodology requires a cultural transformation. A key aspect of the DevOps philosophy involves dismantling barriers between traditionally isolated teams like development and operations. Instead, a collaborative approach is embraced to optimize developer productivity, ensure reliable and precise operations, and speed up release delivery.
In the DevOps mindset, the DevOps team takes full responsibility for the services they develop, placing customer satisfaction at the center of their focus rather than just following processes. It's a circular approach, seeing the entire application lifecycle as their ownership, leading to enhanced efficiency and results for organizations that adopt this model.
<h3>Meeting the IT Demands of eCommerce</h3>
Nowadays, eCommerce sites face soaring expectations. Customers demand a seamless, engaging, and convenient experience; any shortcomings can lead them straight back to search engines, never to return. To thrive in this competitive landscape, eCommerce web development must adhere to specific requirements, including short-term release cycles, rapid bug fixes, service stability, high availability (up to 99.9%), AI/ML integration, robust feedback loops, swift data processing, composable architecture and strong data storage with top-notch security.
DevOps offers an effective solution to address these challenges. The collaboration between developers and management becomes smoother and more agile, eliminating bottlenecks and boosting development and launch processes dynamically.
<h3>Iterative Development and Automated Testing in DevOps</h3>
Constant updates and deployments are essential to stay ahead. DevOps facilitates this process by promoting small, automated, and incremental builds that are swiftly pushed to production. This approach enables quick and frequent changes, ultimately creating an outstanding customer experience.
A critical aspect of the DevOps methodology is automated testing, ensuring the stability and bug-free nature of new code. Through continuous feedback loops, DevOps enhances the eCommerce platform's stability, optimizing the experience for both internal users and customers.
By employing automated testing frameworks and tools, DevOps can detect and fix bugs efficiently, accelerate the testing of new applications and features, expedite product deployment, minimize the risk of human errors, and streamline the overall testing process, leading to increased reliability.
<h3>Automated Infrastructure and Enhanced Security</h3>
In DevOps, manual processes are automated to mitigate the risk of human errors and save valuable time and resources. Infrastructure automation, in particular, offers numerous advantages, including faster turnaround, improved measurability, and efficient time management for developers. By automating routine tasks, the IT team can focus on enhancing applications and driving improvements rather than spending time on maintenance.
In addition to operational benefits, DevOps automation enhances security. Early collaboration between developers and security experts allows for improved security testing, while automation enforces security gates and facilitates compliance management. With the constant collection and management of customer data, eCommerce businesses are exposed to potential data breaches. DevOps helps address these concerns by reducing human error through automated configuration and updates, regular backups, extensive log files, and strict user roles and admin levels. This comprehensive approach to security minimizes risks and safeguards businesses against potential threats that could harm their reputation, customers, and financial standing.
When designing a secure eCommerce project, following points are usually taken into consideration:
<ul>
<li>Automate server configuration and updates;</li>
<li>Regularly create backups;</li>
<li>Automate both full and incremental backup processes and ensure their verification;</li>
<li>Correctly configure SSL and TLS;</li>
<li>Implement role designation and restricted resource access;</li>
<li>Harden remote access configurations &amp; procedures;</li>
<li>Isolate each application;</li>
<li>Securely store infrastructure and application logs (or use special bug/issue tracking systems);</li>
<li>Regularly check code vulnerability for security (SAST);</li>
<li>Implement proper DDoS attack handling;</li>
<li>Enforce a two-factor authentication (2FA) policy.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Agility and Resilience with DevOps</h3>
A DevOps framework empowers businesses to shorten the gap between ideas and production, enabling faster time-to-market for new features and applications.
With DevOps, companies can unleash a new level of speed, agility, and resilience, fostering software innovation and enhancing their competitive edge. Unlike other approaches, DevOps doesn't compromise stability for innovation.
At Mygento, we understand the challenges of the highly competitive eCommerce market. To win and retain customers, outstanding digital experiences are crucial. DevOps holds immense promise for eCommerce, offering improved collaboration, quick response to market demands, and the establishment of an agile and scalable infrastructure for rapid updates and deployments.
As eCommerce experts, we specialize in assisting companies worldwide in implementing DevOps frameworks. By partnering with Mygento, you can accelerate innovation, boost growth, and build exceptional digital experiences for your customers. Contact our team of experts today to discover how we can optimize your processes and strategy, leveraging technology to drive your success in the ecommerce realm.

Did you know that eCommerce probably can't live without DevOps?

Elevating eCommerce with DevOps

Your company faces a crucial decision when it comes to hosting solutions: choosing between cloud servers and dedicated servers.
Traditionally, businesses used to begin with shared Linux servers for web hosting initiation and later upgrade to dedicated servers as their websites experienced growth and higher web traffic demands.
However, with the emergence of cloud hosting, this conventional trajectory is no longer necessary. Managed cloud plans now allow businesses to construct websites with integrated support for various components like Varnish Cache, Memcached, Nginx, CDNs, etc., which previously required extensive developer effort on a custom dedicated server.
Cloud hosting offers the advantage of scalable server resource allocation through hardware virtualization. On the other hand, dedicated server plans provide a fixed allocation of isolated RAM, CPU, and SSD/HDD storage, leading to enhanced performance and increased security for online business applications. Moreover, there are hybrid dedicated cloud hosting solutions that leverage a single parent server's resources based on dedicated hardware.
<h3>What is Cloud Hosting?</h3>
Cloud hosting represents a modern approach to website hosting, where data is distributed across multiple machines rather than relying on a single server. Users interact with a "virtual machine" that accesses the computing power and services from various servers within the cloud. A key distinction between cloud hosting and dedicated server hosting lies in how cloud hosting harnesses the collective computing resources of multiple machines.
Many of the latest retail dedicated cloud hosting plans cater to small businesses seeking website publishing support. These plans draw on advancements in web server network management software, inspired by the scalability demands encountered in enterprise corporations dealing with "big data." The responsibility for managing the scalability requirements of the world's largest websites typically falls on DevOps teams in IT giants such as Google, Facebook, Microsoft, Oracle, IBM, as well as hosting companies like Liquid Web, Rackspace, and Amazon.
<h3>How Does Cloud Hosting Work?</h3>
To grasp the functioning of cloud hosting compared to dedicated servers, understanding the core principles of cloud computing is essential. Cloud hosting leverages virtual servers that utilize cloud computing technology to distribute data across interconnected servers located in different regions.
It becomes crucial for business website owners to differentiate between public, private, hybrid, and managed cloud hosting frameworks. Each of these services addresses the specific web hosting needs of various entities, including small businesses, SMEs, start-up software companies, and enterprise corporations (such as multi-nationals or Fortune 500 brands), offering tailored cost-saving solutions to each market segment.
In addition, comprehension of the disparities between Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) plans is vital for making informed decisions about the most suitable hosting solution for their business.
Cloud hosting offers small businesses a significant benefit by providing access to enterprise-grade Software as a Service (SaaS) or Platform as a Service (PaaS) solutions at a fraction of the cost required to develop the software independently.
Cloud VPS plans often adopt a flexible "pay as you go" billing model, allowing seamless scalability with increased CPU cores, RAM, or I/O processes on demand. This dynamic response proves invaluable during web traffic spikes that can overwhelm shared hosting plans. Elastic cloud platforms expertly manage multiple virtual servers and databases simultaneously, ensuring synchronized changes across versions and efficient caching of web pages for anonymous browsers.
<h3>The Advantages Of Cloud Hosting</h3>
The advantages of cloud hosting encompass a diverse range of plans, platforms, and services, tailored to meet the unique needs of each company and their development teams. One key benefit lies in the provision of pre-installed elastic web server support, accompanied by custom stack software meticulously optimized for CMS websites operating on LAMP. 
Adobe Commerce store owners experience a noticeable enhancement in overall performance when using cloud hosting, owing to a combination of premium hardware configurations, SSD storage options, load balancing for network traffic, and multi-layered database, PHP process, and web file caching services. Additionally, seamless integration with Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) further bolsters website efficiency.
Compared to shared hosting plans, cloud hosting allocates more RAM, CPU cores, and I/O resources to CMS websites, ensuring scalability to meet on-demand resource requirements dictated by live production web traffic. This approach guarantees that websites remain consistently operational, regardless of traffic fluctuations, and results in faster page loading times during regular periods of community use.
<h3>Drawbacks of Cloud Hosting</h3>
When comparing retail cloud hosting under the Platform as a Service (PaaS) model with a dedicated server plan, one notable disadvantage is the potential lack of full flexibility for systems administrators or web developers to modify the web server stack software installation for custom solutions.
For instance, PaaS cloud hosting plans may not allow for changes to the operating system or the installation of alternative web server platform software such as Nginx, Tomcat, Hadoop, Lightspeed, or Lighttpd.
<h3>Advantages of Dedicated Servers</h3>
The key advantage lies in customization, as companies dealing with high traffic or intricate applications prioritize a server tailored to their unique needs. Web developers and programmers rely on dedicated server hardware to create custom web server environments, supporting complex application requirements. This entails installing alternative operating systems, custom developer extensions for programming languages, performance-enhancing utilities, advanced page caching systems, or alternative database frameworks like MySQL.
Java, ASP.NET, Node.js, PHP, and Python developers all benefit from fully customizable dedicated server hardware, enabling the creation of new applications or support for legacy software with specific runtime demands. Dedicated servers can be optimized to handle substantial web traffic for various purposes, including eCommerce, media, publishing, and promotional activities.
<h3>Disadvantages of Dedicated Servers</h3>
The main drawback arises when dealing with unmanaged dedicated servers, where systems administrators must shoulder the responsibility for all aspects of web security, including the operating system (OS) and installed extension frameworks.
In contrast, dedicated servers with managed stack software environments receive continuous updates from remote technicians in the data center, including security patches. However, this approach can result in data access issues with unregistered employees, which may be unacceptable for certain business operations.
Leasing remote dedicated servers can sometimes incur higher costs than purchasing and provisioning local hardware. However, replicating the speed of fiber optic network resources found in world-class data centers or international colocation facilities can prove challenging.
<h3>Key Differences between Dedicated Server Hosting and Cloud Hosting</h3>
When determining their web presence, businesses must weigh the differences between dedicated server and cloud hosting solutions. The ultimate choice hinges on how each server addresses the specific needs of the individual business.
For most small business web hosting needs, cloud hosting solutions offer competitive web server resource scalability options, comparable to dedicated server hardware rates, especially for high-traffic websites.
It is crucial to note that many cloud platforms use a single web server stack software, which might not accommodate the custom software requirements of legacy web applications or databases. In such cases, dedicated server plans become a necessity. However, cloud hosting plans often present a user-friendly "plug and play" PaaS option, enabling smooth website migration and improved web server performance at scale, complete with integrated page caching.
On the other hand, dedicated servers offer fundamental hardware resources that developers can tailor with specific programming language extensions, tools, utilities, and third-party frameworks necessary for complex, database-driven web and mobile applications. Over-provisioning dedicated server hardware for such applications can lead to enhanced performance, leveraging virtualization even with thousands of domain names active on a single server instance—a contrast to shared hosting scenarios.
<h3>Final Word</h3>
In conclusion, cloud hosting has undoubtedly emerged as a popular choice for hosting Magento stores, often touted as the cheapest and most convenient solution. Its elastic scalability, pay-as-you-go model, and ease of setup make it an attractive option for businesses seeking flexibility and cost-effectiveness in their hosting arrangements. Additionally, cloud hosting's ability to handle traffic spikes and its seamless integration with various applications further reinforce its appeal.
However, it is essential to recognize that the perception of cloud hosting as a one-size-fits-all solution may not always align with reality. While it offers numerous benefits, there are instances where other hosting options might better suit specific business needs. 
Renting computing resources from external providers can indeed be costly, but the cloud industry presents it as "computing on demand," emphasizing its futuristic and innovative nature rather than the more mundane reality of "renting computers."
However, the issue goes beyond cost considerations. It pertains to the future landscape of the internet and how it should be operated. Presently, a decentralized marvel like the internet predominantly runs on computers owned by some number of huge corporations. 
At Mygento, we recognize the importance of resisting this trend. Our business model aligns well with owning hardware and amortizing its cost over an extended period. With predictable growth trajectories and a skilled team, we believe it is our responsibility to contribute to a more decentralized approach. 
In the not-so-distant past, most entities operated their own servers, and the progress in tooling enabling the cloud is equally applicable to in-house setups. Let us not be dazzled by entrenched cloud interests; running our own infrastructure is not as complex as they might suggest. Countless individuals and organizations managed it to establish the internet, and the process has only become more streamlined over time.

Your company may face a crucial decision for your store: choose between cloud and dedicated servers.

Choosing Cloud or Dedicated Servers for Your Magento Store

The success of an enterprise business hinges on several critical factors, including a superior product or service, a team of skilled professionals, a robust business strategy, and much more. However, one crucial element that can significantly impact your business's success or failure is the ecommerce platform you choose.
Traditionally, many businesses have relied on all-in-one monolithic platforms, but for larger and more complex enterprises, such as those expanding globally or launching multiple websites or brands, these platforms can pose numerous challenges.
Alternatively, a <a href="https://mygento.com/expertise/composable-architecture">composable or microservices architecture</a> provides a modular approach, enabling businesses to customize their technology stacks by selecting the cutting-edge technologies that cater to their specific business needs.
However, this approach involves extensive development work, which can result in increased costs. Therefore, it's essential to determine which ecommerce platform, monolithic or composable, is best suited for your business.
<h2>Traditional Commerce vs Composable Commerce: The Advantages of Modularity and Agility</h2>
In the past, e-commerce platforms were built using monolithic architectures, which offered an easy-to-use, all-in-one solution. However, these platforms were often slow and unable to respond to changes without affecting the entire system. That's where Composable Commerce comes in. By adopting a modular approach, businesses can enjoy greater agility, scalability, and customization, which is critical in today's fast-paced digital world. 
<img src="https://cms.cloud.mygento.com/uploads/Commerce_4a37f934ad.jpg" alt="Commerce.jpg" />
<h3>A modern architecture's backbone is MACH</h3>
According to Gartner, the adoption of a composable enterprise strategy for IT and business operations is gaining ground among leaders in the digital transformation of business models and industries. However, it is important to note that a modern e-commerce architecture necessitates certain technological and strategic choices, the most crucial of which are guided by four principles: Microservices-based, API-first, Cloud-based, and Headless (MACH). In practice, this means a consolidated IT architecture consisting of the following components based on the MACH principles:
M-for-Mach-Microservices-based: Microservices are small independent services packaged into business capabilities to meet specific business needs. Each core function, or service, is built and deployed independently of other services in the same application or other services. Microservices enable rapid response to new business needs and faster introduction of new features. Different microservices communicate and collaborate with each other using APIs.
A-for-Mach-API-first: APIs use standardized methods and protocols to enable applications to exchange information with each other. APIs serve as the link that allows different applications and IT services to integrate and interoperate seamlessly. APIs benefit users by saving them the trouble of having to enter the same data in two different systems and providing a holistic customer experience. Cloud services commonly use APIs.
C-for-Mach-Cloud-based: True multi-tenant cloud services are easy to scale, accessible to users from anywhere, and avoid significant CapEx in hardware, software licenses, and IT infrastructure. They also avoid risky and expensive upgrade projects because cloud applications are always updated. Companies pay only for what they use (OpEx) since cloud applications are subscription-based.
H-for-Mach-Headless: A headless approach separates the frontend/presentation layer (the digital space where customers view products or services) from the backend business logic layer. A headless approach enables designing a unique digital user experience for each channel and flexibility in leveraging data from ERP systems and other business logic with emerging technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) and with sensors, cash registers, and similar in-store data sources.
<h3>How Composable Commerce Works</h3>
Composable commerce is a strategy for creating a tailored technology stack by choosing the top-performing solutions from third-party vendors. This approach is designed to keep pace with the rapidly changing market landscape, and it utilizes cutting-edge technologies such as APIs, cloud computing, headless architecture, and JAMstack. This modular approach enables businesses to easily adapt to changing needs while maintaining a high degree of customization.
<h3>Composable vs. Monolithic Architecture: The Big Differences</h3>
To help you navigate this complex decision, we've put together a comprehensive list of the key benefits and potential roadblocks of each approach. Whether you're weighing the benefits of agility and scalability or the potential drawbacks of maintenance and total cost of ownership, we've got you covered.
Don't make this critical decision blindly - arm yourself with the knowledge you need to make an informed choice. We'll break down the essential differences between these two ecommerce powerhouses, giving you the insight you need to take your business to the next level.
Benefits
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th style="text-align:center;">Monolith</th>
<th style="text-align:center;">Composable</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align:center;">Familiar but limited Monolithic architecture has become a stalwart of the development world, a tried-and-true framework that offers familiarity and a sense of security.</td>
<td style="text-align:center;">Agility through modularity In today's fast-paced business environment, agility is key. With composable architecture, businesses can quickly and easily make changes to their technology stack to meet evolving demands, without being bogged down by a monolithic approach.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align:center;">Low cost in early stages In the early stages of development, cost considerations can loom large, and the ability to deploy a single unit at a lower cost can be a significant advantage of the monolithic approach.</td>
<td style="text-align:center;">Modular scalability Scalability is crucial for businesses that want to stay competitive, and a composable architecture makes it easy to scale specific components as needed to accommodate growth and changing needs.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align:center;">Simple testing Testing a complex application can be a daunting task, but monolithic architecture offers the benefit of simplified testing, enabling developers to test the entire application as a cohesive whole.</td>
<td style="text-align:center;">Leading-edge With a composable approach, businesses can choose the cutting-edge components to suit their unique requirements, creating a highly customized and optimized tech stack that delivers top performance and efficiency.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align:center;">Easier bug fixes When it comes to bug fixes, having all source code in one place can be a major boon, providing a clear path to identifying and resolving issues more quickly and efficiently than with other architectures.</td>
<td style="text-align:center;">Lower total cost of ownership A composable architecture offers a lower total cost of ownership, allowing businesses to pay only for the components and capabilities they need, without being saddled with the costs of unnecessary features or bloated technology stacks. This enables businesses to maximize their return on investment while minimizing costs over the long term.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Challenges
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th style="text-align:center;">Monolith</th>
<th style="text-align:center;">Composable</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align:center;">Lack of agility The rigidity of monolithic architecture can make it challenging for businesses to keep up with emerging technologies and changing customer expectations, hindering their ability to innovate and remain competitive.</td>
<td style="text-align:center;">Increased modularity A composable architecture is made up of a collection of loosely-coupled modules, which can offer greater flexibility and modularity than a monolithic approach.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align:center;">Lack of scalability Scaling a specific function within a monolithic structure can have a ripple effect, impacting the entire application and limiting a business's ability to quickly and efficiently respond to growth and changing needs.</td>
<td style="text-align:center;">Complexity management Although adding more modules can increase complexity, composable architectures allow businesses to manage this complexity by breaking their system down into manageable pieces.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align:center;">Expensive maintenance The cost of maintaining a monolithic system can be prohibitively expensive, as any changes or updates require the deployment of the entire system, leading to inefficiencies and a lack of cost control.</td>
<td style="text-align:center;">Multi-vendor integration Composable architectures require integration of multiple vendors and services, which can be challenging, but also offers businesses the opportunity to select the best-of-breed solutions for each function.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align:center;">Lack of code ownership The lack of code ownership within a monolithic architecture can lead to a duplication of effort and a lack of reuse across different parts of the application, leading to redundancies and inefficiencies.</td>
<td style="text-align:center;">Cross-functional collaboration With each module often handled by a separate team, a composable architecture promotes cross-functional collaboration, driving better communication and teamwork across the organization.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align:center;">Risky to deploy updates Deploying updates within a monolithic system can be a risky proposition, as updating a single component has the potential to impact the entire system, leading to downtime and lost revenue.</td>
<td style="text-align:center;">Infrastructure evolution A composable architecture often requires the adoption of new tools and infrastructure to support it, leading to an evolution of a company's technology ecosystem and promoting innovation.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
To successfully implement a modern e-commerce architecture, it is crucial that the different technologies and solutions integrated into your retail platform operate seamlessly and efficiently. Achieving this requires the assistance of a skilled and experienced technology partner who can offer guidance on both technologies and business strategies. Additionally, they should be capable of implementing the necessary modules and ensuring that each system interconnects smoothly.
In a typical composable commerce technology stack, services are included that cover all the features usually found in a traditional monolithic platform.
<h3>The Final Word</h3>
Gone are the days when a rigid, monolithic approach could adequately support the ever-evolving needs of modern enterprises. In today's rapidly changing business landscape, flexibility and adaptability are critical to success.
Thankfully, composable commerce provides merchants with the freedom to customize their tech stack with a vast array of best-in-breed technologies. By mixing, matching, and combining these powerful tools, businesses can create a robust and agile infrastructure that can pivot in response to unexpected challenges and opportunities.
Don't settle for a one-size-fits-all approach that hinders your enterprise's innovation and longevity. Choose the flexibility and scalability of composable commerce to take your business to the next level.

Enterprise success: superior product, skilled team, robust strategy, and more.

What Is Composable Commerce?

Microservices have become the reigning trend in web software architecture, captivating numerous renowned experts and advocates. Prominent industry giants like Facebook, Uber, Groupon, Klarna, Amazon, Netflix, eBay, and Comcast have embraced the microservice architecture with great success.
However, it's essential to recognize that your team and circumstances might differ significantly from these industry leaders. Your team composition is likely distinct, and you might not encounter the exact challenges faced by these notable companies.
<h2>Unraveling the Mystique of Microservices Architecture:</h2>
Imagine a vast desert, where each grain of sand, seemingly insignificant on its own, comes together to create something truly magnificent. That's the essence of a microservices architecture — an intricate tapestry woven from small, focused components, each performing a narrow function while collectively forming a larger whole.
At its core, microservices possess distinctive qualities. They are designed to be compact, manipulating only the essential data they require and collaborating seamlessly across service layers. Reactivity is their virtue, and they embrace the art of decoupling data to achieve scalability. When executed masterfully, they exhibit fully automated provisioning, boast cloud-native capabilities, and maintain robust decoupling across multiple layers.
However, like any architectural choice, microservices come with their share of trade-offs. Mapping complex business flows becomes more challenging, collaboration among services requires extra effort, reconciling data states becomes a daunting task, and integration complexities soar to new heights. Automation, a vital aspect of microservices, demands increased investment, while the overall system complexity becomes harder to contain. Moreover, ensuring observability across the architecture poses a formidable challenge.
Mitigating these trade-offs demands an incremental approach — one that gradually embraces the art of downsizing while acknowledging the added complexity that comes with distribution. For most organizations, the unique characteristics of microservices may not be necessary until they surpass the threshold of generating annual revenues exceeding $2 billion.
So, while microservices may be a captivating architectural choice, it's crucial to weigh their benefits against the complexities they introduce. Only then can you make an informed decision on whether the sands of microservices are the right fit for your organization's software architecture.
<h2>Microservices Unveiled: Debunking the Straw Man</h2>
Microservices have been hailed as a panacea for various software development challenges. However, it's important to recognize that the benefits associated with microservices can often be achieved, to some extent, through a monolithic architecture.
When proponents of microservices highlight their advantages, they often imply that adopting a microservice model is the only way to address these issues effectively. In reality, microservices offer an additional layer of flexibility that you can choose to embrace, but it comes at a cost — both in terms of development and maintenance.
The key phrase here is "buy into." Microservices are not a free ride; they are notorious for their high expenses throughout the building and upkeep stages. If your project genuinely requires that extra degree of flexibility, then it's worth considering whether the benefits outweigh the associated costs. Microservices might indeed be a suitable fit for your needs, and a serious evaluation is warranted.
However, if you don't genuinely need that level of flexibility, you risk over-engineering your technology stack and hindering your team's ability to deliver value to customers efficiently.
<h3>Unleashing the Power of Scalability: A Microservices Dilemma</h3>
The allure of microservices lies in their ability to allocate resources independently to each function of your application, granting unparalleled control. You can precisely determine the number and type of resources allocated to each function.
But let's pause and consider: Do you really need such granular control? Do different functions within your application encounter varying levels of load or scale at different rates? Do they demand diverse CPU, memory, storage, or GPU requirements?
Here's a thought: Instead of fine-tuning your infrastructure to the nth degree, many teams find it more cost-effective to address these resource disparities by simply increasing the size or number of available "boxes" across the board. In other words, it might be wiser to avoid optimizing your infrastructure to the point of obsession.
Before diving headfirst into a microservices architecture, take a moment to explore the potential of fixing performance issues and bottlenecks within your monolithic system. Often, resolving these challenges in your existing architecture is easier and less disruptive than transitioning to an entirely new architectural pattern. Seek inspiration within your tech stack to discover ideas on how to tighten up your app and enhance performance.
If you have multiple servers, chances are you're already utilizing a load balancer to distribute incoming traffic. Here's a fascinating idea: Configure your load balancer to route traffic to independently scalable clusters of your application instances. This way, you can allocate resources dynamically based on the specific needs of each cluster.
Moreover, consider leveraging independently scalable queues for asynchronous tasks, seamlessly transitioning them into background jobs. Ensure that you have an adequate number of queues to exert precise control over the number of resources needed to keep your queues running smoothly while maintaining reasonable infrastructure costs.
Scalability is undoubtedly a powerful concept, but it's crucial to evaluate whether microservices are the ideal fit for your particular requirements. By exploring alternative strategies within your monolithic architecture and leveraging intelligent traffic routing, you might discover a path to scalability that doesn't necessitate a complete architectural overhaul.
<h3>Unlocking Fault Isolation: Microservices' Shield</h3>
One of the significant advantages of a well-designed microservices architecture is its ability to contain faults within a single feature, preventing them from cascading and bringing down the entire system. Fault isolation, a captivating facet of microservices, can safeguard the stability and resilience of your application.
Consider routing traffic to isolated clusters as a proactive measure to protect against faults. To determine the optimal routing strategy, reflect on your historical fault patterns. Identifying the sources of previous issues can guide you in deciding how to route your traffic effectively. 
However, prevention is always better than a cure. By fostering a robust test culture and prioritizing automated testing, you can minimize faults and mitigate their potential impact. Building confidence in the quality of your shipped code is crucial, ensuring it not only delivers the required functionality but also withstands the rigorous demands of production-level loads.
Microservices architecture also offers the advantage of being language and technology agnostic. While this limitation may seem like a constraint, it actually promotes simplicity and alignment within your tech stack. The absence of excessive language and technology choices helps avoid a fragmented and overly complex ecosystem.
In the realm of fault isolation and architectural choices, striking the right balance is paramount. Microservices offer fault containment, but the decision to adopt them should be based on your specific needs and trade-offs. Emphasize testing practices, cherish simplicity, and carefully evaluate the benefits of introducing new technologies. This approach will empower you to navigate the fault isolation landscape with confidence and finesse.
<h3>Unraveling the Myth of Independence: Monoliths vs. Microservices</h3>
Independently deploying services may seem like an enticing benefit, but let's take a closer look at its practical implications. While there are scenarios where independent deployments hold value, they can become a sticky bottleneck for your day-to-day changes. Orchestrating multiple deployments across separate services can complicate and hinder the rapid release of features.
But fear not! Even within a monolith, it is still possible to break down complex and risky changes into separate deployments. Think of making forward and backward-compatible migrations with their own pull requests and deployments. This approach introduces some of the advantages offered by microservices without mandating its adoption for every change.
Now, let's delve into the realm of dependency management. Microservices enable separate dependencies for each service, but ask yourself: Do you truly need them? Managing dependencies in a large monolith can be challenging enough. Fragmenting it into smaller lists simplifies the management of each individual list but can add complexity to the system as a whole. While microservices won't guarantee an escape from the clutches of "dependency hell," they can reduce the likelihood of conflicts.
In the real world, staying on top of dependency updates is desirable but often slips through the cracks. Being at the bleeding edge of available versions can exacerbate issues, as dependencies may progress at different paces. However, staying on top doesn't necessarily mean blindly adopting the latest version in every case. It's a delicate balancing act that requires thoughtful consideration.
Now, let's address the claim of simpler and easier-to-understand code. This benefit, at best, is disingenuous and, at worst, a blatant lie. While it is true that each microservice may appear simpler and more manageable, the overall system becomes far more complex and harder to comprehend. Rather than eliminating complexity, you've merely relocated it elsewhere.
But fear not, again! We don't need to introduce network boundaries and isolated processes to make our code easier for engineers to grasp. Modularizing your monolith by breaking it down into well-defined modules with limited concerns can render it just as easy, if not easier, to understand than a system composed of separate services.
So, let's debunk the misconceptions and consider the full picture. Monoliths and microservices each come with their own set of advantages and challenges. It's essential to evaluate the specific needs of your project and strike a balance between complexity, manageability, and ease of understanding. Embrace an architectural approach that aligns with your team's expertise and empowers efficient delivery of value to your customers.
<h3>Breaking Free from Monolith Misery: Debunking the Microservices Mirage</h3>
Are you plagued by problems with your monolith? Before pointing fingers at its monolithic nature, let's take a step back. It's possible that the root of the issue lies within the monolith itself, not in its architectural style.
Building software is a formidable challenge. Wrangling large, complex systems with countless moving parts that evolve over time is a Herculean task. If you find yourself wrestling with your monolith, it's likely due to its inherent flaws, not the mere fact that it's a monolith.
Now, the buzz around microservices may have you believing that they hold the magical solution to all your monolithic woes. But beware! Adopting microservices without addressing the underlying issues can lead you straight into a world of pain.
The choice between a monolith and microservices is often presented as a black-and-white dichotomy—old school versus new school, right versus wrong, an either-or proposition. But the reality is far more nuanced. Both approaches have their merits and trade-offs, and the correct choice depends heavily on your specific context and considerations.
In fact, this choice itself is a false dichotomy. In certain circumstances, it may be more prudent to evaluate each feature on a case-by-case basis rather than imposing a single approach on your entire engineering team.
So, should you consider microservices? As with many things, it depends. There are undoubtedly situations where microservices can deliver substantial benefits and justify their existence. However, if you find yourself part of a small or medium-sized team, or if you're embarking on an early-stage project, the answer is clear: No, microservices are likely unnecessary for you.
Don't fall for the microservices mirage without carefully assessing your needs, resources, and the potential pitfalls. Instead, focus on improving your monolith, untangling its complexities, and delivering value to your users. Remember, liberation from monolith misery comes not from blindly chasing the latest trends, but from thoughtful engineering practices tailored to your unique circumstances.
<h3>Unlocking Business Growth through Aligned Architecture</h3>
In the dynamic landscape of the software industry, it's crucial to recognize the intricate web that connects people, processes, organization, culture, and technology. The interdependence of these domains necessitates a synchronized alignment, propelling the business forward with minimal effort.
To illustrate the importance of alignment, let's explore some cautionary examples:
Imagine a microservices architecture deployed by a team of merely three software engineers. Or picture a sprawling team with 500 developers, lacking a shared animation. Perhaps you encounter multiple software teams, each shouldering 50% of run tasks without collaborative support. The list goes on, but the underlying message remains clear: alignment is paramount.
Through an in-depth study of over 50 companies, a macro-model has emerged:
<ul>
<li>For businesses with $0-2 million in revenue and up to 10 full-time equivalents (FTEs), a monolith architecture is typically sufficient.</li>
<li>As revenue climbs to the $2-20 million range with up to 50 FTEs, a modular monolith architecture proves effective.</li>
<li>Scaling further to $20-200 million in revenue with up to 500 FTEs, a service-based architecture becomes favorable.</li>
<li>From $200 million to $2 billion in revenue, the transition from macro to miniservices architecture accommodates up to 5,000 FTEs.</li>
<li>Finally, for organizations surpassing $2 billion in revenue and boasting more than 5,000 FTEs, the leap to mini to microservices architecture becomes feasible.</li>
</ul>
Interestingly, the analysis revealed that many companies claiming to implement microservices were, in fact, implementing service-based or macroservices architecture. Take, for instance, a "Basket" service in a digital eCommerce context. While it may be modular with explicit interfaces to other applications, it still performs multiple business functions within a defined functional and technical boundary—a macroservice rather than microservices.
The key technological differences lie in the granularity of services, which tends to be higher in microservices, and the sharing of data between services rather than external decoupling.
<h3>Finding the Perfect Socio-Technological Fit for Business Evolution</h3>
In the ever-changing landscape of business, different architectures emerge as a company evolves. It's important to recognize that each stage requires a unique socio-technological ecosystem to thrive.
Here's the secret: it's not just about the technology itself. It's about finding the minimal alignment that enables the business to adapt and grow with agility.
While fancy buzzwords may captivate attention, it's the efficiency and timely delivery of software that truly sets businesses apart.
So, before diving headfirst into the latest architectural trend, take a moment to make the right choice for your business. Embrace the notion that "modular monolith" and "minimal architecture" are regaining popularity for a reason. These approaches offer practicality, efficiency, and a renewed focus on quality engineering.
In a world driven by results, it's the right architecture combined with a well-aligned socio-technological ecosystem that will empower your business to thrive. Embrace the wave of change and unleash the true potential of your organization.
At Mygento eCommerce Solutions, we hold the view that, for new, small, and medium-sized engineering teams, the monolith should remain the default choice. Microservices can still be considered, but only if you have compelling, context-specific reasons that justify their adoption.
For medium to large teams, the microservices route should be approached with great apprehension. Yes, it may hold potential, but a deep understanding of the trade-offs is paramount.
So, take heed of the wisdom gleaned from those who have ventured into the microservices realm. Learn from their triumphs and tribulations as you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of software architecture.

For most organizations, the unique characteristics of microservices may not be necessary until ...

Beyond the Hype: Pros and Cons of Microservices

With its immense power and unparalleled flexibility, it has become the go-to platform for online merchants looking to make their mark on the digital marketplace. However, if you're hoping to build a truly remarkable online store that sets you apart from the competition, simply relying on Magento extensions and widgets might not be enough.
Picture this: what if the Colosseum in Rome was erected with the same components used in a modest dwelling - would it still have gained the grandiose and impressive reputation it holds today as an architectural masterpiece? Or if the Taj Mahal was just another plain white building instead of a breathtaking mausoleum, would it still be considered one of the most beautiful structures in the world?
The same principle applies to eCommerce. While Adobe Commerce is a powerful and flexible platform, relying solely on its extensions may result in an online store that lacks distinction and fails to leave a lasting impression on customers. To make your store different from others, it's important to decide whether to use Magento extensions or custom development. By choosing either option, you can add a special touch that sets your store apart.
Both options have their pros and cons, making it difficult to determine which is the best fit for your specific needs. That's why we're here to help, providing a comprehensive analysis of both categories so that you can make an informed decision about how to elevate your online store to new heights of success.
<h3>What does statistics say?</h3>
According to Statista, as of 2021, there were around 1.9 million live websites using Magento, one of the leading e-commerce platforms in the market. However, there is a divide between those websites that are built using custom Adobe Commerce development and those that use Adobe Commerce Extensions.
Custom Adobe Commerce development refers to the process of creating a Adobe Commerce website from scratch or building custom extensions that are tailor-made for the unique requirements of a business. This type of development requires a team of experienced developers who have the skills and knowledge to create a website that meets the specific needs of the business.
On the other hand, pre-built extensions or themes that are available for purchase and can be easily integrated into an existing Magento website. These solutions can be cheaper and faster to implement, but may not provide the same level of customization as a custom solution.
Looking at the data, it is clear that the majority of Magento websites are using Magento Extensions. This is likely due to the cost and time required for custom development, which may not be feasible for smaller businesses or those with limited resources. Additionally, Adobe Commerce Extensions offer a simpler and faster solution for businesses that don't require a high level of customization.
However, it is important to note that custom development can provide a significant competitive advantage for businesses that require unique functionality or have complex requirements. According to a survey conducted by Clutch, a B2B ratings and reviews platform, businesses that use custom e-commerce solutions are more likely to see an increase in revenue and customer engagement compared to those that use Magento Extensions.
In conclusion, while Magento Extensions are a popular choice for many businesses, custom development remains an important option for those that require unique functionality or have complex requirements. Ultimately, the decision between these two options depends on a business's specific needs, resources, and goals.
<h3>What Are The Magento Extensions?</h3>
The rush to bring a startup idea to fruition can be overwhelming, especially when the fear of someone else seizing the opportunity looms. The question of whether the niche has already been occupied may plague the mind, leading to the belief that a Magento Extension is the most efficient and cost-effective approach. However, at the risk of sounding contrarian, we argue that custom application development holds the key to unlocking greater benefits for businesses. Why settle for a generic solution when you can have a tailor-made application that caters to the unique needs of your enterprise?
Let's start by talking about Magento extensions.
Magento Extensions
If you're looking to add specific features to your Magento-powered online store, extensions might just be the perfect solution for you. These modules are small packages of code that can be quickly integrated into your store without any hassle. They are pre-built, readily available off the shelf, and operate in a plug-and-play fashion.
Given that a staggering 12% of all eCommerce sites are built on the Magento platform, it's no surprise that there is now a vast marketplace for extensions. With over five thousand of them covering everything from aesthetics to sales analytics and mobile functionality, extensions provide a quick and easy way to enhance the look and performance of your online store. So why not take advantage of this vast ecosystem of extensions and give your online store the boost it deserves?
Advantages of using extensions for your Adobe Commerce store are numerous. Firstly, extensions are a cost-effective solution, with prices ranging from $50 to $1000, making them an affordable option for smaller or newer eCommerce stores. Secondly, they offer immediate and practical use, with no need for extensive design or testing. Moreover, most extensions available on the market have already been updated, optimized, and thoroughly tested, which eliminates the risk of potential bugs and issues.
Extensions also come with their support system. In addition to detailed instruction manuals, most extension providers offer unlimited upgrades to their packages, ensuring that your store stays up-to-date and optimized.
However, as with any solution, there are some downsides to using extensions.
Firstly, despite the vast array of options available, there may not be an extension that fulfills your exact requirements. This may be acceptable for smaller businesses, but larger companies looking to provide the best possible online experience for their customers may find that extensions fall short.
Moreover, using too many extensions can slow down your store's performance. While most extensions are well-coded and self-contained, they may not work well with each other, causing issues and a decrease in site speed. To avoid this, it is best to use extensions sparingly, but this may also mean sacrificing some functionalities you were hoping to have.
If you find yourself feeling confused or worried about extensions, remember that there are always other options to consider. Custom development or a hybrid approach that combines extensions with custom coding could be the answer to achieving the exact functionalities and performance you desire.
Let's delve deeper into Magento custom development.
<h3>What exactly is custom software development?</h3>
While off-the-shelf software can help companies deal with specific standard processes, custom software development covers a wide range of digital projects and ultimately aims to help companies meet some of their more specific requirements. 
Where extensions are nearly ready to go once installed and configured without the need for a dedicated IT department, there are several steps to building a successful custom software solution. But if you have the time and a little more in your initial budget, the benefits of custom software development will definitely be worth the money.
By testing your prototype with end users, you can improve product functionality to get the best customer response and gain valuable insights to help you move forward. You will be able to identify potential bottlenecks and fine-tune the architecture of the solution before proceeding with full-scale development. Armed with knowledge and feedback, you can quickly scale your designs without recurring bugs.
Custom software development is a strategic investment that can have a significant impact on the success and growth of your organization. While Adobe Commerce Extensions may seem like a more convenient and cost-effective option, they often come with limitations that can hinder your ability to achieve your business objectives. Here are five compelling reasons why custom software development can be a game-changer for your company:
Performance Benefits
Custom development can provide your business with a perfect online store that meets your every requirement. Apart from specific functionality and appearance, custom development can also streamline code to perform tasks more efficiently. With code written specifically to meet your brand’s needs, your store will operate faster, and with more than 40% of online customers abandoning slow-loading sites, this can be a significant advantage.
Security and Protection
Data protection is an essential component of any software, especially when it comes to eCommerce. A data leak can quickly erode customer trust, which is hard to regain once lost. As a business owner, it's crucial to prioritize security and ensure that your customer data is safe and secure. 
Custom Adobe Commerce development provides several security methods that you can incorporate to safeguard your eCommerce store and customer data. Here are some of the most common security methods available in custom Magento development:
<ul>
<li>Multi-factor authentication: Multi-factor authentication is a security method that requires users to provide multiple forms of identification to access their accounts. This method makes it more challenging for attackers to gain access to sensitive data.</li>
<li>Data encryption: Data encryption is a security method that encodes data into a cipher so that only authorized parties can access it. Data encryption can protect sensitive information like customer names, addresses, and credit card information.</li>
<li>Security patches: Security patches are updates that address security vulnerabilities in software. Regularly installing security patches is essential to keeping your eCommerce site secure and protecting customer data.</li>
<li>SSL certificates: SSL certificates are cryptographic protocols that ensure secure communication between web browsers and servers. An SSL certificate provides a secure connection, protecting sensitive data like passwords and credit card information.</li>
<li>Firewalls: Firewalls are network security systems that monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predefined security rules. Firewalls can block malicious traffic and prevent unauthorized access to your eCommerce site.</li>
</ul>
These security methods are just some of the ways that custom Magento development can enhance your eCommerce store's security. By implementing these measures, you can safeguard your store against potential security breaches and build trust with your customers.
Scalability
Every business wants to grow, and with growth comes an increase in customers and sales volume. Magento Extensions may work well initially, but it may not be scalable enough to accommodate the evolving needs of a growing business. To ensure that your software solution can keep up with your business's growth, it's important to plan ahead and opt for a solution that can be easily scaled.
Transparent Development and Support
When purchasing Magento Extensions, the assumption is often that technical support is included in the package. However, it's important to understand the limitations of such support, which may not be sufficient for complex customizations or adaptations to the software. This is where transparent development and support come into play. It's crucial to work with a development team that is open and honest about the development process and provides clear communication throughout. Additionally, it's important to have access to ongoing technical support to ensure the software solution remains functional and secure.
Cost-effective in the long run
Although the initial expenses associated with custom software development may surpass those of purchasing Magento Extensions, it can prove to be a more economical choice in the long term. When acquiring an off-the-shelf product, you essentially rent it, and the recurring subscription fees can accumulate rapidly. Conversely, with custom software, you possess the solution outright and exert greater control over its maintenance and updates. As a result, you can steer clear of costly ongoing fees and attain a superior return on investment over time.
Long-term support and maintenance
When you purchase Magento Extensions, you rely on the vendor to provide ongoing support and maintenance. However, if they choose to discontinue a product or fail to deliver necessary updates, you could be left with outdated and unusable software. On the other hand, with custom software development, the responsibility for ongoing support and maintenance lies with the software development company. They can offer updates and fixes as needed, ensuring that your software remains up-to-date and secure.
Simplified integration
Implementing new software solutions can be a daunting task, particularly in large and fragmented organizations. Custom software development simplifies the integration process by providing a solution that is tailored to your unique business requirements. This means that all required integrations are built into the project, making it easier for teams to adopt the new software. Custom software development can also help bridge communication gaps between departments, facilitating better collaboration and ultimately driving business growth.
However, before jumping headfirst into custom development, it's important to consider the potential downsides.
Custom development also requires more time to design and test compared to ready-to-use extensions. It's worth noting that if you choose custom development, the developer may need to be involved in the ongoing operation of your site, which could require some adjustments to your management structure.
If the cost and time investment of custom development is a concern, you could explore the option of purchasing Magento extensions and customizing them to fit your needs. This approach can provide tailor-made functionality at a more affordable price point. However, it's important to note that you may need to pay for ongoing maintenance to ensure the extension continues to work properly and evolves with your business needs.
Choosing the right approach ultimately boils down to the overarching strategic direction of the project. Creating a visually appealing and well-designed online store requires a significant investment. For small businesses venturing into eCommerce, starting with extensions may be a wise first step. However, for others, custom development might be the best option.
Custom web development offers unique adaptive capabilities that cater to the specific needs of a particular market niche. From user interactions to efficient workflows for staff, third-party integrations, and profit-boosting strategies, a custom website will deliver exactly what your business needs. Choosing to have your website built from scratch frees you from the limitations of pre-made solutions, giving you the freedom to make your site stand out from the crowd.
By utilizing optimized functionality, custom web development results in a high-performance website that's tailored to your needs. Custom web development ensures that your site's features are optimized for the best possible user experience. Additionally, custom development provides you with more opportunities to improve your site's performance and keep it running smoothly.
One of the most significant benefits of custom web development is the limitless potential for growth. While basic, non-customized websites built using a standard template or platform with minimal features and functionalities may be suitable for startups, they lack the scalability necessary for long-term growth. Custom development allows for flexibility and scalability, ensuring that your website can grow alongside your business and adapt to the changing demands of your industry.
<h3>Conclusion</h3>
In today's highly competitive business landscape, it's critical to have a technology infrastructure that is aligned with your strategic objectives. Custom software development can offer a unique solution to enhance the efficiency, security, and scalability of your business. By investing in a custom software solution like Magento custom development, you'll be able to tailor your technology infrastructure to your specific needs, which can give you a competitive edge. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and delivering an exceptional shopping experience, you can build brand loyalty and boost revenue.
It's important to note that every solution, whether it's Magento Extensions or custom, has its pros and cons. While custom software development can be a more expensive investment upfront, it can provide significant long-term benefits in terms of efficiency, scalability, and security. On the other hand, Magento Extensions are often more affordable and easier to implement but may not offer the same level of customization. With the right approach, custom Magento development can be a game-changer for your business, enabling you to optimize your technology infrastructure and deliver exceptional customer experiences that drive growth and success.
Ultimately, the decision on which solution to choose rests with you and your business. By prioritizing customer satisfaction, you can build brand loyalty and boost revenue, regardless of the software solution you choose. So, take the time to weigh your options carefully and make a decision that aligns with your strategic objectives, giving your business the competitive edge it needs to succeed.

In the vast world of eCommerce, Magento is undoubtedly a towering presence. 

Why Choose Custom Development?

<h4>If you use Adobe Commerce, you're probably aware of how scalable and versatile it is. It enables multinational companies to swiftly incorporate new technologies and engage customers at every touchpoint thanks to its modular core and headless features.</h4>
In the March update there were such aspects as improved performance and overall platform quality (more than 300 quality fixes and enhancements).
Main enhancements:
<ul>
<li>Now Adobe Commerce 2.4.6 supports PHP 8.2 (8.1 remains fully supported) and PHP 7.4 has been removed. </li>
<li>Improved performance for operations affecting many customer segments. </li>
<li>Improved import performance (csv REST API endpoint)</li>
<li>Improved High-throughput order processing</li>
<li>The Purchase Orders for Companies feature is now fully exposed by the GraphQL API.</li>
<li>Improved response time when querying categories with category permissions enabled via GraphQL</li>
<li>Optimized performance of category tree rendering on GraphQL</li>
<li>Reduced bulk cart operations query response times on GraphQL</li>
<li>B2B v1.3.4</li>
</ul>
Here you can find more information about the released update:
<a href="https://experienceleague.adobe.com/docs/commerce-operations/release/notes/adobe-commerce/2-4-6.html?lang=en">Adobe Commerce 2.4.6 Release Notes</a>

Adobe Commerce 2.4.6 is now available to partners.

Adobe Commerce 2.4.6

Five years after its previous publication, OWASP has today issued its updated list of the top 10 vulnerabilities for organizations in 2021–2022. The 10 widespread vulnerabilities identified by OWASP that are most likely to have an impact on businesses in the upcoming years are explained in this article.
<h3>OWASP Top 10: 2021–2022, compared to 2017</h3>
A nonprofit organization called OWASP was founded with the purpose of enhancing software security. It is a one-stop shop for those looking for application security failure and practical expertise, as well as businesses, governments, and other international organizations. It presents its own collection of lessons on application security and related topics rather than promoting any commercial services or goods.
Additionally, it embodies the idea of an "open community," in which anybody may take part in online OWASP discussions, projects, and other activities. All of the OWASP's resources, such as online tools, videos, forums, and events, are made available to the general public via its website. Data leaks, shoddy access control, and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks are all common as a result of the increase in cybercrime. The OWASP Top 10 was created by the OWASP Foundation to aid in avoiding certain security issues. It is an order by assessing the relevance of the 10 most serious security risks to current web apps. The most recent revision to OWASP's "Top 10" list, which was last updated in Q4 of 2021, was made in 2017.
<h3>A03:2021-injections expand in scope</h3>
Injections are used in the initial modification. When a hacker tries to provide data to a web application, it is known as an "injection attack," and the web program ends up acting inadvertently. These vulnerabilities may involve LDAP (lightweight directory access protocol) injection, SQL, and operating system bugs. The most recent update to the OWASP Top 10 now includes A07:2017 cross-site scripting vulnerability since this weakness is also injectable (XSS).
<h3>A05:2021-rising importance of security misconfiguration</h3>
This category has climbed in the OWASP Top 10 due to the increase of configuration choices. A04: 2017-XML External Entities starting in 2021 are also included (XXE). An XML input processing client-side software is the target of the XXE attack. When hazardous XML input references to external entities are handled, an XML-External-Entities-Attack occurs. However, this attack only works when the XML parser is broken or badly set up. As a result, A04:2017-XML External Entities (XXE) has been added as a specific kind of misconfiguration to A05:2021-Security Misconfiguration.
<h3>The Top 10 OWASP Vulnerabilities for 2022: What Are They?</h3>
With revised scope, renamed categories, and consolidation, the Top 10 for 2021 now includes three new categories. Here are the main security flaws to look out for in 2022 to get things going and defend against these dangers:
<img src="https://cms.cloud.mygento.com/uploads/OWASP_Vulnerabilities_928bf9bd29.png" alt="OWASP Vulnerabilities.png" />
<h3>1. Access control issues</h3>
Access control puts tactics into action to stop users from going outside the bounds of the permissions they have been granted. Unauthorized or undesired users may get access to sensitive data, processes, and user privilege settings as a result of access vulnerabilities. 
An example of an access control vulnerability is metadata manipulation, which includes tampering with or replaying with a JSON web token (JWT) access control token, or changing cookies or hidden information to increase privileges or exploit JWT invalidation. Another illustration is when the rule of default denial is broken. Everyone has access, but access must only be allowed to certain positions, talents, or users. Attackers may find it easy to gain access to all they want as a result of such flaws.
However, by using safe coding techniques and adopting steps like turning off administrator accounts and limits and installing multi-factor authentication, one may prevent insufficient access security mechanisms and identity or password management concerns. 
Additional preventative strategies comprise:
<ul>
<li>To minimize cross-origin resource sharing, enforce access control methods only once and utilize them throughout the application (CORS). </li>
<li>Clearly defined application business limits ought to be imposed by domain models. </li>
<li>Limit user access to controllers and application programming interfaces (API) to lessen the impact of automated attack tools. </li>
<li>Log access control errors and notify administrators as necessary. </li>
<li>Model access controls must ensure record ownership rather than providing the user access to create, view, alter, or delete any information.</li>
</ul>
<h3>2. Cryptographic failures</h3>
Sensitive data exposure, formerly known as cryptographic failures, moved up one place to position two. The emphasis here is on cryptographic mistakes or lack thereof, which commonly reveal sensitive data; this is more of a symptom than a major cause. The following are common instances of exposed sensitive information: 
<ul>
<li>Session tokens </li>
<li>Login credentials and passwords </li>
<li>Online purchases </li>
<li>Personal data (switched service network or SSN, health records, etc.)</li>
</ul>
For instance, automatic database encryption may be used by an application to securely encrypt credit card information. Unfortunately, when this data is read, it is instantly decrypted, making it possible for an attacker to use a SQL injection flaw to extract credit card information in cleartext. The following preventative measures can be taken to minimize these failures: 
<ul>
<li>To save passwords, you should use strong, salted, adaptive hashing algorithms with a delay factor, such as scrypt, Argon2, PBKDF2, or bcrypt. </li>
<li>When sharing sensitive data, older protocols like the file transfer protocol (FTP) and simple mail transfer protocol (SMTP) should be avoided. </li>
<li>It is advisable to use authenticated encryption rather than just utilizing encryption. </li>
<li>Keys that are generated via cryptographic randomness must be kept in byte arrays. If passwords are used, they must be converted into something akin to a key using a password-based key production process.</li>
</ul>
<h3>3. Injections</h3>
A database attack known as injection (also known as SQL injections) targets websites that utilize structured query language (SQL) to collect information or carry out tasks that typically require an authenticated user account. Because these codes are challenging for the software to decipher from its own code, attackers can employ injection attacks to access restricted regions and sensitive information while posing as trusted users. SQL injections, command injections, CRLF injections, LDAP injections, etc. are examples of injections. 
94 percent of the applications were checked for injections, with a maximum estimated incidence of 19 percent, an average rate of incidence of 3 percent, and 274,000 incidents. Injection was thus demoted to third on the updated ranking.
Among such preventative strategies are: 
<ul>
<li>Employing an API that totally avoids the interpreter, provides a parameterized API, or switches to object-relational mapping (ORM) tools is a preferred option. </li>
<li>It is advised to use server-side validation input that is positive. Special characters are required by several applications, including text fields and APIs for mobile apps. </li>
<li>It's a wonderful idea to use LIMIT and other SQL limitations inside queries to prevent large amounts of data from being exposed in the event of a SQL injection.</li>
</ul>
<h3>4. Unsafe architecture</h3>
This is a new category for 2021 that focuses on design and architectural defects. Reference architectures, threat modeling, and design safety guidelines should all be used more frequently in this area. There are several issues that fall under the broad category of "insecure design," such as "missing or insufficient control design." This does not mean that the other top 10 risk categories are all caused by insecure design. 
Insecure implementation differs from insecure design. Even though the design is secure, implementation problems might result in vulnerabilities. On the other hand, if there aren't adequate security measures in place to protect against specific risks, a defective design cannot be made up for by faultless execution.
These dangers can be avoided by utilizing the following preventative methods: 
<ul>
<li>With the help of AppSec experts, set up and apply a secure development lifecycle to assess and create security and privacy measures. </li>
<li>For important verification, access control, application logic, and crucial flows, threat modeling is suggested. </li>
<li>User stories should contain terms and controls related to security. </li>
<li>Another effective preventive strategy is the design-based separation of tenants into distinct groups across all layers.</li>
</ul>
<h3>5. Incorrect security setups</h3>
Similar to improperly configured access restrictions, general security setup flaws offer serious risks by giving attackers rapid and simple access to sensitive data and site areas. 
90% of applications were examined by OWASP for misconfiguration due to an average incidence rate of 4% and over 208,000 instances of a common weakness enumeration (CWE) in this category. Two significant CWEs are "CWE-16 configuration" and "CWE-611 incorrect limitation of XML external entity reference." Secure installation methods, which include the following, must be utilized to prevent configuration issues:
<ul>
<li>A secure environment may be quickly and simply deployed using a methodical reinforcing procedure. Similar environments should be set up for development, quality assurance, and operations, each with its own set of user privileges. </li>
<li>It is perfect for automating procedures for creating a new safe environment in order to save the required time and effort. Frameworks and features that are not utilized should not be added or uninstalled. The risk of configuration vulnerabilities is reduced by a primary platform devoid of auxiliary features, parts, documentation, or demonstrations.</li>
</ul>
<h3>6. Weak and out-of-date components</h3>
Most internet applications are developed using third-party frameworks. Unknown application codes might lead to problematic situations and effects, such SQL injections and accent control violations. 
There may be vulnerability-related risks if the application is unreliable, unsupported, or out-of-date. The package consists of the operating system, applications, DBMS, APIs, other components, libraries, and runtime environments. It also contains the application/web server. 
Attackers can locate unpatched or incorrectly configured machines using automated methods. For instance, users may find devices that are vulnerable to the Heartbleed issue using the Shodan IoT search engine, which was addressed in April 2014. Several preventative strategies include:
<ul>
<li>It is essential to buy parts from reputable vendors using safe payment methods. </li>
<li>Be on the watch for components and modules that lack functionality or don't offer security updates for previous iterations. If patching is not possible, think about creating virtual patches to monitor, recognize, or protect against the vulnerability. </li>
<li>Eliminate any extraneous needs, features, components, directories, or documentation.</li>
</ul>
<h3>7. Failures in identification and authentication</h3>
Previously known as broken authentication, this category now includes CWEs related to identity issues after falling from second place. Security risks arise when an attacker acquires user data, password recovery, ID sessions, and other login credentials. An identity and authentication failure comprises hackers taking advantage of such vulnerabilities to take advantage of weak authentication, as the name suggests. 
These might be indicators of authentication weaknesses if the program allows automated attacks like credential stuffing, when the attacker has access to lists of genuine users and passwords, or predetermined, weaker, and popular passwords like "Password1" or "admin/admin."
Consider the following preventative actions to avoid such flaws: 
<ul>
<li>To prevent automated credential stuffing, brute-force attacks, and the reuse of stolen credentials, multi-factor authentication must be utilized wherever it is practical. </li>
<li>Password security can be improved by comparing newly created or altered passwords to a database of the 10,000 worst passwords. </li>
<li>In order to protect password recovery, registrations, and API paths from account enumeration attacks, using the same messages for every outcome is a good idea. </li>
<li>Installing default login credentials is not recommended, especially for administrative users.</li>
</ul>
<h3>8. Failures in software and data integrity</h3>
Data integrity considerations are becoming important for software since more sensitive data is kept in databases that are susceptible to security breaches. 
This is a brand-new category that concentrates on taking for granted the reliability of CI/CD processes, critical data, and software upgrades. Applications using add-ons, modules, or repositories from unofficial or content delivery networks (CDNs) are one instance. Unprotected continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD) processes run the risk of unwanted access, system compromise, and malicious code. 
Prevention strategies involve:
<ul>
<li>To ensure that data or software comes from legitimate sources without being tampered with, one might take precautions like using digital signatures. </li>
<li>To ensure that components don't include design defects, a security tool for the software supply chains, such as OWASP CycloneDX or OWASP Dependency-Check, may be utilized. </li>
<li>To protect the integrity of the code throughout setup and deployment processes, it is essential to ensure that the CI/CD workflow includes the requisite segmentation, access control, and parameterization. </li>
<li>Sending unsigned or unencrypted compilation data to customers who are not trusted is not advised unless integrity checks or a digital signature are in place to detect data duplication or tampering.</li>
</ul>
<h3>9. Failures in security logging and monitoring</h3>
A lack of tracking in the presence of suspicious activities and events might extend gaps in time that go unmonitored, allowing security breaches to go unreported for longer than they would with better documentation. This portion of the OWASP Top 10 for 2021 is designed to help with the detection, escalation, and remediation of recent breaches. Without recording and monitoring, it is unlikely that a security breach will be discovered. 
This failure was demonstrated by a General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) issue involving a significant European airline. Over 400,000 customer payments' worth of information were allegedly obtained by hackers who used security holes in payment applications. The airline was penalized by the privacy authorities 20 million pounds for the lost data.
As a precaution against such hacks, users should: 
<ul>
<li>Check that any issues with authentication, access security, and server-side data validation are documented with enough user information to identify erroneous or fraudulent accounts and preserved for a long enough time to support a delayed thorough investigation. </li>
<li>Ensure that logs are produced in forms that log management systems can use. </li>
<li>Develop or use a newer version of NIST 800-61r2 or another approach for incident recovery and response efforts. </li>
<li>Make that log data is properly encoded to prevent hacker threats or intrusions into the monitoring systems.</li>
</ul>
<h3>10. Server-side request forgery (SSRF)</h3>
An above-average testing coverage, a comparatively low incidence rate, and above-average Impact and Exploit scores are among the findings for this category. When server-side queries are made without first checking the user-provided URL, SSRF develops. This enables an attacker to bypass network access control lists, virtual private networks, or firewalls to force an application to send a falsified request to a malicious address (ACL). 
With the introduction of new web apps that provide end-users practical functions, fetching a URL has become a common occurrence. As a result, the prevalence of SSRF is rising. Additionally, cloud services and design complexity are contributing to an increase in SSRF intensity. In light of this, the following preventative methods can be used to prevent similar attacks:
<ul>
<li>One should divide distant resource access functions into several networks to reduce the impact of SSRF. </li>
<li>Install network access control rules or "deny by default" firewall settings to prevent all web traffic aside from necessary internal traffic. </li>
<li>It's wise to be aware of URL correctness to defend against attacks like DNS remapping and "time of check, time of usage" in (TOCTOU) scenarios.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Implementing OWASP's Top 10 Insights</h3>
The 2021 update comes with a number of notable improvements over earlier versions. The newly classified category A04:2021-insecure design clearly suggests that security has to be prioritized even during the design phase. The benefits of microservices versus monoliths in terms of security come next. They are not impenetrable, though, as shown by A10:2021-server-side request forgery (SSRF), which calls for extra parameters (A05:2021-security misconfiguration). 
Taking OWASP's recommendations into consideration may increase application security against cyberthreats, strengthen network and cloud encryption, increase application success rates, and significantly boost a company's cyber resilience.

The most recent list from OWASP details the dangers that are most likely to affect businesses in 2022 and how to defend against them.

Top 10 Vulnerabilities by OWASP 

Recent world events have accelerated the already accelerating change in the internet commerce sector. Passed years were genuinely important for internet sales since they kept customers at home, which resulted in a significant shift in consumer behavior. 
By the next few years, customer expectations for internet enterprises have continued to rise. As a result, businesses that take advantage of the current trends' sales potential outperform those of their rivals.
Direct-to-consumer (D2C) ecommerce is forcing B2B enterprises who were previously dependent on pure distribution networks to change their business strategies. D2C digital commerce sales in the US soared to 11.5 billion USD in 2020, and that number exploded to 129 billion USD by 2021. With 25% of customers utilizing D2C subscription services solely, millennials and Gen Z are driving a growing interest in the D2C sector. 
Join us as we analyze what it means to go from distribution to direct-to-consumer (D2C), the motivations behind doing so, and the possible risks and problems associated with doing so successfully. We also look at the most recent developments and elements that play a role in expanding your D2C business.
<h3>FROM DELIVERY TO D2C</h3>
In the past, B2B businesses depended on retailers or distributors to sell their goods to final consumers. The well-functioning system was nevertheless upset by COVID when retail closures, lockdowns, and supply chain interruptions led to sharp decreases in sales. Distribution and retail partners even shut down completely in some instances. 
The switch to D2C already took place before the pandemic; the lockdown just accelerated the process for businesses considering the change. As a result, many businesses that formerly sold through distribution now do direct-to-consumer business. 
But would a direct-to-consumer sales channel help any eCommerce business grow? 
After all, a significant change is always dangerous. 
<h3>5 GOOD REASONS TO CHANGE TO D2C</h3>
Selling direct-to-consumer (D2C) enables businesses to diversify their revenue streams by generating an extra source of income that is not impacted by the cyclicality of B2B sales to retailers and distributors. This innovative sales approach has the potential to help you build stronger bonds with your clients and gain more control over your brand.
<h4>1. DEPENDENCE REDUCE</h4>
You may lessen your dependency on wholesalers and retail partners by taking advantage of the D2C industry. When the lockdowns made it impossible for customers to visit physical stores, several distribution-only companies permanently shut their doors. B2B companies suffered greatly from the lack of a specific D2C digital commerce strategy. Nike started moving toward a direct-to-consumer business strategy a few years before the pandemic, and it paid off: the company's internet sales grew by 82% at the start of 2020.
<h4>2. BE AWARE OF YOUR CLIENT DATA</h4>
You get far from your client when you distribute or work with retailers to sell your products. D2C commerce enables you to get closer to your clients and start gathering more information about their identities, interests, and buying habits. 
This supports the development of a more clever long-term business plan, impacting everything from future market expansion to R&amp;D.
<h4>3. MANAGE YOUR BRAND</h4>
You lose some control over your brand when you merely provide your product to another company for sale. When you use a digital commerce strategy to sell directly to clients, you regain control over the brand image by interacting with them directly. 
Additionally, by providing superior customer service, you may affect how they engage with your business. To stay ahead of the competition in the cutthroat market, your brand must differentiate itself significantly. Your company's performance as a whole depends critically on the quality of your direct consumer relationships.
<h4>4. EXPAND YOUR TERRITORY</h4>
Your D2C sales strategy has the potential to assist you in increasing your market share and fostering quick growth if it is backed by a solid product and marketing strategy. The reach of your brand is frequently constrained by distribution networks and retail locations. 
It is possible to get beyond the limitations of conventional retail locations in the realm of internet commerce. You may connect with clients all across the country or even the world if you have the correct fulfillment and delivery plan in place.
<h4>5. LOWER COSTS</h4>
Businesses must consider methods to lower their expenses as budgets become more constrained. Digital D2C commerce has the potential to reduce expenses through more automation and self-service. 
Retail establishments have always depended on in-person encounters to generate sales. Rent, labor, and other expenditures are included in this. Successful digital commerce reduces costs through self-service and direct-to-consumer shipping while maintaining the human touch. As customers perform some of the "hard lifting," your business can concentrate on reducing the price of your products.
<h3>4 D2C TRENDS</h3>
Digital businesses confront a number of difficulties this year, including rising consumer expectations and persistent supply chain problems. D2C companies and conventional digital merchants will be prepared to face challenges and thrive in the nearest future by keeping up with current developments. 
<h4>1. MORE B2B BUSINESSES WILL CHANGE TO D2C</h4>
Many more significant B2B companies will create their own D2C channels in order to compete with digital D2C brands. Less people visit physical stores as a result of the pandemic's continuing consequences, such as the continued work from home of many employees and supply chain problems. In order to build stronger ties with their consumers, traditional businesses will seek to connect with potential customers online.
<h4>2. MORE D2C BRANDS WILL INCLUDE A D2C SUBSCRIPTION MODEL</h4>
A minimum of one retail subscription is paid for by around 33% of all US customers. With around 51 million US customers adopting D2C subscriptions, D2C subscriptions are becoming more and more popular among retail subscribers. 
Of course, not every direct-to-consumer firm can use a subscription model. Vendors must research the market to determine where their company gives the greatest value. 
You don't have to reinvent the wheel; perhaps it's simply a matter of packaging and distributing the wheel in a novel manner.
<h4>3. THE CX FOR D2C CUSTOMERS WILL CONTINUE TO DEVELOP</h4>
While D2C businesses provide functionality, they have the opportunity to better cater to their customers' needs. Brands offering direct-to-consumer subscription services may make ordering more flexible. A consumer who subscribes to prenatal vitamins, for instance, would prefer to receive orders every three weeks rather than every four because traveling might keep them away from home. 
Customizing the customer experience also entails paying attention to your clients' wants. It may take some time for a brand that has only sold to wholesalers and retail partners to understand the specifics of each of its clients.
However, you can enhance your CX and broaden your category reach by providing more items or services by getting to know your clients at several contact points and obtaining information about their requirements and wants.
<h4>4. A HEADLESS OR COMPOSABLE APPROACH WILL BE ADOPTED BY MORE D2C BRANDS</h4>
B2B companies creating a new D2C channel today have a distinct advantage over their rivals because they can create a flexible digital commerce solution that enables them to quickly adapt to the shifting demands of the customer. D2C businesses can immediately deploy new and highly flexible solutions, such a headless or composable approach, to their digital commerce platform.

Recent world events have accelerated the already accelerating change in the internet commerce sector.

D2C Trends, Benefits, Risks, and Success Strategies

<h4>If you use Adobe Commerce, you're probably aware of how scalable and versatile it is. It enables multinational companies to swiftly incorporate new technologies and engage customers at every touchpoint thanks to its modular core and headless features.</h4>
In the August update there were such aspects as improved performance and overall platform quality.
More than 20 vulnerability-related issues have been fixed in the updating Adobe Commerce 2.4.5 and over 290 quality fixes and enhancements for Magento Open Source. This allows business and data to remain absolutely safe.
Here you can find more information about the released update:
<a href="https://devdocs.magento.com/guides/v2.4/release-notes/open-source-2-4-5.html">Magento Open Source 2.4.5 Release Notes</a>
<a href="https://devdocs.magento.com/guides/v2.4/release-notes/commerce-2-4-5.html">Adobe Commerce 2.4.5 Release Notes</a>

Adobe Commerce 2.4.5 is now available to partners.