Do I need an ESB if I’m integrating in the cloud?

One pattern that I’m seeing arise more often lately is cloud applications integrating with cloud applications. As such, programmers are skipping the use of an ESB all-together, with the reasoning being, “why should I enter the trusted network only to have my request go out again?” While this maybe a valid reason, I suggest that there are many more reasons to continue using an ESB including:

• logging/auditing;
• ability to handle service provider changes (data formats, endpoints, service providers);
• sharing of security ids/roles
• keeping service account usernames/passwords within the enterprise vs. on a cloud client application

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I’m sure that the explosion of more cloud/mobile apps we’ll see more point-to-point architectures but am urging architects to consider using an ESB for integrating even if both clients/servers reside outside the DMZ.

Here’s another fascinating article about ESB-based design architecture for cloud integration