What is eventual consistency and when to use it?

Can you explain what eventual consistency means?

Eventual consistency is a consistency model used in distributed systems where updates to a data item will eventually propagate to all nodes, ensuring that all copies of the data will converge to the same value over time.

When should I use eventual consistency instead of strong consistency?

You should use eventual consistency when your application can tolerate temporary inconsistencies, such as in social media feeds or caching systems, where performance and availability are prioritized over immediate accuracy.

What are some examples of systems that use eventual consistency?

Examples include Amazon DynamoDB, Apache Cassandra, and many NoSQL databases that prioritize availability and partition tolerance.

Are there any drawbacks to using eventual consistency?

Yes, the main drawbacks include potential data conflicts, the complexity of resolving inconsistencies, and the challenge of ensuring that users see the most up-to-date information.