September 2024 Summaries

Convoy's latest release introduces a simplified architecture based on the control plane and data plane model, which replaces the previous tightly coupled system. This new design separates configuration tasks, managed by the control plane, from the data processing tasks, handled by the data plane, both of which share state through a common PostgreSQL database. The architecture aligns with industry standards seen in API Gateways, offering significant advantages such as the separation of concerns, which enhances system availability by isolating failures within components. This separation also allows for focused reliability engineering efforts and more efficient scaling strategies. The control plane can now operate on smaller, cost-effective machines, while the data plane can be optimized for performance, providing deeper observability and resource efficiency. This redesign not only addresses immediate operational challenges but also sets a foundation for future improvements in Convoy's webhook gateway, enhancing reliability and performance.

Convoy is transitioning from the MPL 2.0 License to the Elastic License v2.0 (ELv 2.0) to better accommodate users who prefer self-hosting and require proprietary features while maintaining a free and open-source offering. This change is part of their buyer-based open core framework, designed to provide specialized proprietary features to the users who need them most. The decision to opt for ELv 2.0 over other open-source licenses was influenced by its ability to streamline the development workflow, allowing Convoy to maintain a single repository and deliver all features through one binary, simplifying the upgrade process for users who switch from the community to the business edition. Convoy aims to prioritize the stability and reliability of its webhook gateways, ensuring they remain dependable in production environments, and invites users to share feedback or ask questions via email or their community platform.