What is RabbitMQ?
RabbitMQ is a robust, enterprise-grade message broker that implements the Advanced Message Queuing Protocol (AMQP). Unlike event streaming platforms like Kafka, RabbitMQ focuses on reliable message delivery between applications using sophisticated routing, queuing, and acknowledgment mechanisms.
RabbitMQ Performance Calculator
Exchange Types & Routing Patterns
Direct Exchange
Routes messages based on exact routing key match.
→ Queue: order_processing
Topic Exchange
Routes using pattern matching with wildcards (* and #).
→ Matches: order.created, order.updated
Fanout Exchange
Broadcasts messages to all bound queues (ignore routing key).
(broadcast to all)
Headers Exchange
Routes based on message headers instead of routing key.
→ Queue: high_priority
Real-World RabbitMQ Implementations
Uses RabbitMQ for activity feeds and notification delivery.
- • Photo processing workflows
- • Push notification distribution
- • Activity feed generation
Mozilla
Implements RabbitMQ for Firefox update distribution system.
- • Software update delivery
- • A/B testing coordination
- • Telemetry data collection
NASA
Uses RabbitMQ for satellite communication and data processing.
- • Satellite telemetry processing
- • Mission control communications
- • Scientific data distribution
Shopify
Leverages RabbitMQ for order processing and inventory management.
- • Order fulfillment workflows
- • Inventory synchronization
- • Payment processing queues