.NET Architecture & System Design Interview Question #71

What is strong consistency?

Database Scaling, Partitioning, NoSQL & Data Consistency Mid-Level Intermediate

Quick Interview Answer

Strong consistency means clients observe data according to a model in which completed writes are visible in the required order, often making the system behave as though there is one current authoritative value.

Detailed Explanation

Strong consistency means clients observe data according to a model in which completed writes are visible in the required order, often making the system behave as though there is one current authoritative value.

Strong consistency simplifies some business rules but can require coordination between nodes, which may increase latency or reduce availability during failures or partitions.

Code Example

Write X = 10
   |
write completes
   |
subsequent required read
   |
returns X = 10