What does scalability refer to in a system?

Scalability in a system primarily refers to its ability to adapt to increased demands as it grows. This means that as the volume of work or the number of users increases, a scalable system can handle this growth effectively without a drop in performance or efficiency.

For example, in a software application, scalability allows the system to manage more transactions, support more users, or process larger datasets without needing a complete redesign or overhaul. This can involve expanding resources like server capacity, memory, or bandwidth, and it ensures that the system remains functional and efficient, regardless of growth.

The focus on growth and increased demand distinguishes scalability from other concepts related to resource management or system stability. Understanding scalability is essential for designing systems that can accommodate future expansion and changes in user needs.