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Layered Architecture - When to Use

publish date: 2026/06/11 07:37:9.688284 UTC

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The Layered architecture pattern is most appropriate in which of the following situations? Select ALL that apply.

When real-time performance is the only critical requirement and latency must be minimised

When all components must be able to interact directly with all other components simultaneously

When development is spread across several teams with each team responsible for a layer of functionality

When there is a requirement for multi-level security

When building new facilities on top of existing systems

Correct Answer

(1) When building new facilities on top of existing systems

(2) When development is spread across several teams with each team responsible for a layer of functionality

(3) When there is a requirement for multi-level security

Explanation

Layered architecture is used when: building new facilities on top of existing systems; development is spread across several teams each responsible for a layer; and when multi-level security is required (each layer can enforce security at its boundary). It is not suited when all components need to interact freely, or when maximum performance is the only requirement - multiple layers of interpretation add overhead.

Reference

Software Engineering, Ian Sommerville, 10th edition

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