1 Introduction to Apache Kafka
This chapter covers
- What Apache Kafka is and its use cases
- How Apache Kafka fits into enterprise ecosystems
- Architectural Overview of Apache Kafka
- Running and using Apache Kafka
In the first chapter we will dive into the basics of Apache Kafka, we will learn what Apache Kafka is and where it can be used. More importantly, we will look at how Apache Kafka can be seen in the context of whole enterprise ecosystems and we will learn about the basic components of Apache Kafka and their purpose. Last but not least we will get to know what is required to use Apache Kafka in terms of hardware, tools, or programming languages.
1.1 What is Apache Kafka?
What is Apache Kafka all about? Why are so many different companies (and government agencies) using Apache Kafka? Why is it utilized by over 80% of the Fortune 100 companies? How does it serve diverse sectors such as banks, insurance companies, automotive, logistics service providers, Internet start-ups, retail chains, and law enforcement agencies? How does Kafka play a crucial role in modern data processing and streaming solutions across these industries?