Tech Interview Prep

In this episode of Tech Interview Prep , we apply our 4-step system design framework to one of the most common and challenging interview questions: designing a global chat system like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger. We begin by establishing a design scope that supports one-on-one messaging, small group chats, and online presence indicators for 50 million daily active users . We explore the high-le...

In this episode of Tech Interview Prep , we explore the essential role of a rate limiter in controlling network traffic and blocking excess API requests to prevent server overload and denial-of-service (DoS) attacks . Following our 4-step system design framework , we first establish the design scope—ensuring our limiter provides low latency , uses minimal memory, and remains highly fault-tolerant...

Credits to Gaurav Sen and Alex Vu Listeners will join an iterative journey of scaling systems from zero to millions of users , exploring the evolution from single-server setups to distributed global infrastructures . The episode provides a "deep dive" into the critical components of modern engineering, including load balancing, caching strategies, database sharding, and consistent hashing . Using...

The podcast breaks down complex architectural concepts—such as load balancing, caching, and database sharding —using relatable real-world analogies, like the process of scaling a growing pizza parlor .Beyond just technical architecture, the show focuses on the "signals" interviewers look for, including your ability to resolve ambiguity constructively , collaborate as a "teammate," and use back-of-...