High-Level Architecture of Twitter

Twitter's architecture elegantly combines complex data modeling and real-time data flow, focusing on its database design and the method of serving feeds.

Database Design and Modeling

Twitter's data management is based on a robust relational model using MySQL databases. The design is structured as follows:

• Users Table: Every user on Twitter is represented in the Users table, with a unique primary key that forms the basis of many relationships within the system.

• Tweets Table: The Tweets table stores individual tweets, linked to the corresponding user via the user's primary key.

• Feed Table: The Feed table is responsible for managing the collection of tweets displayed in a user's feed, including tweets from the user as well as those they follow.

• Followers Table: This table could manage the relationships between users and their followers, detailing who follows whom on the platform.

• Hashtags Table: Twitter's use of hashtags might be managed in a separate table, linking hashtags to tweets and enabling powerful search functionality.

  

This structure creates a clear and efficient network of relationships between users, tweets, feeds, followers, and hashtags.

Data Model Breakdown

• User: Contains detailed information about each user.
• Tweet: Represents individual tweets, linked to users.
• Feed: Manages the display of tweets in a user's feed.
• Followers: Models the follow relationships between users.
• Hashtags: Captures the use of hashtags within tweets.

Serving Feeds

The feeds system is essential to Twitter's user experience, managing the real-time display of tweets.

Analytical Insights

• Scalability: The architecture supports growth through the efficient use of primary keys and relational tables.
• Complex Interactions: Managing followers, feeds, and hashtags requires a well-thought-out schema.
• Real-Time Requirements: The architecture supports the real-time nature of Twitter, emphasizing the importance of performance optimization.