Explore consistent hashing, a crucial algorithm in distributed computing and database systems like Apache Cassandra and DynamoDB, in this episode of The Backend Engineering Show. Dive into the challenges of distributed systems, learn when to distribute data, and understand the limitations of simple hashing. Discover how consistent hashing solves these issues, and examine the process of adding and removing servers in a distributed environment. Gain valuable insights into this fundamental concept for backend engineers and database administrators through a comprehensive breakdown of its principles and applications.

Syllabus

Intro
Problem of Distributed Systems
When to Distribute
Simple Hashing
Where Simple Hashing Breaks
Consistent Hashing
Adding a Server
Removing a Server
Limitations