How do I transition from a monolithic architecture to microservices?

What are the first steps I should take to transition from a monolithic architecture to microservices?

Start by assessing your current monolith. Identify the components that can be decoupled and prioritize them for migration.

How do I decide which services to break out first?

Focus on the components that are most critical to your business and those that have the highest potential for reuse.

What tools or technologies should I consider for microservices?

Consider using containerization tools like Docker, orchestration platforms like Kubernetes, and API gateways for managing services.

How can I ensure smooth communication between microservices?

Implement service discovery and use lightweight communication protocols like REST or gRPC to facilitate interaction.

What are some common pitfalls to avoid during this transition?

Avoid trying to migrate everything at once. Also, ensure you have proper monitoring and logging in place to troubleshoot issues.