Distributed Tracing
Monitoring technique that tracks user requests across multiple services and systems to identify performance bottlenecks in complex architectures.
Definition
Distributed tracing creates detailed maps of how requests flow through microservices, APIs, databases, and third-party integrations. Each request receives a unique identifier that follows it across system boundaries, collecting timing and error data.
The technique provides visibility into complex, interconnected systems where traditional monitoring falls short, helping teams understand dependencies and optimize critical user journeys.
Why It Matters
Modern applications span multiple services and vendors, making it difficult to diagnose performance issues using conventional monitoring. Distributed tracing pinpoints exactly where delays occur in complex request paths.
Faster problem resolution directly impacts user experience and business metrics, while detailed performance insights enable proactive optimization of critical business processes.
Examples in Practice
Netflix uses distributed tracing to monitor video streaming requests across their content delivery network, recommendation engines, and user interface services to maintain optimal playback quality.
Uber's ride-hailing platform employs distributed tracing to track requests from booking through driver matching to payment processing, ensuring reliable service during peak demand.
Stripe implements distributed tracing across their payment processing pipeline to identify bottlenecks in transaction flows and maintain high availability for merchant transactions.