Legacy Java Applications: Refactor or Discard?

Migrating legacy Java applications to the cloud involves deciding between refactoring or discarding them altogether, as modernizing technology infrastructure has become essential for businesses. Refactoring is often the most viable option, allowing enterprises to make fundamental changes to the code while maintaining existing functionality, and transforming applications into microservices that offer improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The process involves assessing the application's feasibility for migration, considering factors such as value, complexity, cost, security, and risks. Cloud migration options include encapsulation, rehosting, replatforming, refactoring, rearchitecting, rebuilding, and replacing, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. Refactoring is favored due to its balance of benefits and resource efficiency, enabling the integration of applications into modern cloud environments without substantial changes in functionality. Tools like vFunction facilitate this process by automating the analysis and microservice extraction, ensuring a quicker and seamless transition to cloud-native applications.