LOOK UP WHEN NEEDED
Stateful / Stateless
Whether processing relies on retained interaction state.
An everyday example
A counter remembers prior visits or requires full context each time.
See how these concepts connect
The frontend requests through an API; the backend applies rules and accesses data. Results return in the reverse direction.
Where this term is useful
These are related contexts, not prerequisites.
Back in the project
When it comes up: When organizing services, background work, and concurrent use.
What to do next: Map the current request path and validate a minimal flow before adding complexity.
Open the related method and stepsWhat can this analogy leave out?
Multiple services add coordination cost; serverless still uses servers and incurs charges.
Everyday examples explain roles and relationships; actual behavior follows the tool, language, or platform.