How can I structure a scalable microservices architecture using Django, FastAPI, Node.js, and Laravel with a shared authentication system?

[maaz-arabsea]

How can I structure a scalable microservices architecture using Django, FastAPI, Node.js, and Laravel with a shared authentication system?

[Syed-Sabeer]

When combining multiple technologies in a microservices architecture, maintaining a centralized authentication system is key for scalability and security. Here's how you can approach it:

Auth Service (Centralized)
Use FastAPI or Laravel Passport/Sanctum to create a standalone authentication service. This service handles user registration, login, token issuance (JWT or OAuth2), and user verification.

Microservices Setup

Django: Academic services (e.g., courses, attendance)

FastAPI: Lightweight APIs (e.g., notifications, chat)

Node.js: Real-time features (e.g., socket-based live classes)

Laravel: Admin services or multi-tenant setups

Shared JWT Tokens
All services must verify JWT tokens issued by the Auth Service using a shared public key (for RS256) or shared secret (HS256).

API Gateway (optional but recommended)
Use Kong, Traefik, or Nginx as an API gateway to route traffic and enforce auth middleware across all services.

Database Strategy

Use separate databases per service (preferred for microservices).

Shared authentication DB for user data, or replicate essential user fields where needed.