Definition
Networking in cloud native environments refers to the design and implementation of network infrastructure and services that support the dynamic, distributed, and automated nature of cloud native applications. This involves abstracting traditional network constructs like IP addresses and firewalls into software defined resources, enabling rapid provisioning and scaling. It allows applications to communicate securely and reliably across distributed systems, microservices, and containerized workloads, regardless of their underlying physical location. For instance, service meshes manage inter-service communication, providing features like traffic routing, load balancing, and secure transport between microservices. This differs from traditional networking by emphasizing programmability and automation over manual configuration. Understanding this concept is crucial for roles preparing for certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect and CCSP.