Do you need a trusted backend development company to optimize your server infrastructure, enhance database management, and support seamless software system scalability? We explored countless client feedback and case studies to create the listing of premium backend development services and help businesses like yours find the right partner. Browse our directory and tailor your search by location, pricing, minimum budget, team size, and other criteria to begin your search.

Best Backend Development Services

1,790 Companies - Rankings updated: April 04, 2026

DesignRush evaluates each web development company based on its technical expertise, proven record, and verified client reviews. Some listings may be paid.

  • Bigcommerce Web Development + Digital Agency | 8+ Years Experience

    Bigcommerce Web Development + Digital Agency | 8+ Years Experience

    Kushel Digi Solution has over 8 year of experience in Shopify, Bigcommerce, And custom E-commerce solution to deliver high performing online stores.  [... view Kushel Digi Solutions profile ]
    Location
    Noida, India
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $20/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    8 Projects Listed
  • Empower Your Online Success.

    Empower Your Online Success.

    Digineutrons is a comprehensive solutions provider dedicated to helping businesses grow through innovative strategies and cutting-edge technology. We combine expertise with a client-focused approach to deliver exceptional results across diverse industries. We empower businesses with strategic marketing and  [... view Digineutrons LLC profile ]
    Location
    Chicago, Illinois
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $18/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Let's Build Our Future, Together

    Let's Build Our Future, Together

    Vivasoft Nepal is a software development company in nepal, offering custom software, mobile app, AI/ML, and IT consulting services. They work with global clients across industries like finance, e-commerce, health, and logistics, delivering end-to-end tech solutions with agile practices and a skilled  [... view Vivasoft Nepal profile ]
    Location
    Dhaka, Bangladesh
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $50/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $10,000 - $25,000
  • Inspirational web design, branding and digital marketing in Inverness

    Inspirational web design, branding and digital marketing in Inverness

    Inverness Design Studio is a leading creative agency specialising in professional logo design, web development, and branding services for businesses in Inverness and the Scottish Highlands. We craft custom, modern designs to elevate your brand identity, including minimalist logos, responsive websites, and  [... view The Inverness Design Studio profile ]
    Location
    Inverness, United Kingdom
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $10/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Creating Effective Digital Solutions For Complex Challenges

    Creating Effective Digital Solutions For Complex Challenges

    We are Zentix Soft, a UK-founded IT company with offices in Ukraine and Latvia. Our team specializes in full-cycle web development, mobile app development, and custom software solutions. We operate in three models: in-house, outsourcing, and outstaffing, helping clients build efficient and scalable  [... view ZentixSoft profile ]
    Location
    London, United Kingdom
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $50/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $25,000 - $50,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Integrated Growth Marketing, SEO & AI Optimization

    Integrated Growth Marketing, SEO & AI Optimization

    Lagraphia is an AI-powered digital marketing agency based in Madison, Wisconsin, combining advanced technology with human-led strategy. As a boutique, founder-led agency, we focus on delivering fast, clear, and measurable results for our clients. Backed by experienced specialists and a proven, repeatable  [... view Lagraphia profile ]
    Location
    Madison, Wisconsin
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $95/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Unlock Your Digital Potential with Expert .NET & Software Development Company

    Unlock Your Digital Potential with Expert .NET & Software Development Company

    Digisoft Solution is a trusted .NET development partner, specialising in custom software development, creative design, and strategic digital marketing for IT and non-IT sectors. We transform ideas into powerful digital solutions that drive growth and performance.  [... see all Digisoft Solution reviews ]
    Location
    Mohali, India
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $25/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Leading Solution Development Agency Driven by Innovation, impact, and intelligence Execution.

    Leading Solution Development Agency Driven by Innovation, impact, and intelligence Execution.

    Noseberry Digitals - India's leading solution development agency offering tailored web, mobile, and AI/ML solutions to fuel business growth.  [... view Noseberry Digitals profile ]
    Location
    Greater Noida, India
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Empowering Businesses with Intelligent AI Solutions.

    Empowering Businesses with Intelligent AI Solutions.

    Encrypted Infoweb delivers AI automation, custom software, and intelligent digital solutions that help businesses worldwide streamline operations, innovate faster, and scale efficiently. Based in Rajkot, India, our experienced team designs and develops AI-powered web platforms, mobile apps, SaaS products, and  [... view Encrypted InfoWeb profile ]
    Location
    Rajkot, India
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $15/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    6 Projects Listed
  • We cook for web

    We cook for web

    Webchefz Infotech is a prominent website design and development company established in 2007. The company specializes in offering services such as UI/UX, Socail Media Marketing, Print, E-commerce development and website maintenance.  [... view Webchefz Infotech profile ]
    Location
    Mohali, India
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $15/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    6 Projects Listed
  • More than a digital agency - we're a partner

    More than a digital agency - we're a partner

    R9 Digital Marketing and Consulting is here to help with your digital needs. From creating Facebook ad campaigns, Google search campaigns, SEO, building a website that works on the front end and back end, we are here for you.  [... view R9 Digital Marketing & Consulting profile ]
    Location
    Brampton, Canada
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $125/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Your Business, Automated.

    Your Business, Automated.

    We help businesses scale by combining AI, automation, and CRM expertise into done-for-you solutions. From lead capture and client nurturing to AI-powered voice agents and custom workflow design, Yotomations builds systems that give you back time, reduce costs, and drive measurable growth. Your business  [... view Yotomations LLC profile ]
    Location
    Lutz, Florida
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $150/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Software Development Company

    Software Development Company

    Dasinfomedia offers mobile app development, software development, and AI solutions for businesses in Wesley Chapel & Tampa Bay, FL  [... view Dasinfomedia profile ]
    Location
    Wesley Chapel, Florida
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $25/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Get Better Leads & Outpace Your Competition.

    Get Better Leads & Outpace Your Competition.

    An independent digital performance marketing agency specializing in Google Ads, Conversion Rate Optimization. Effective, high-performance marketing.  [... view Edge Digital Services Ltd profile ]
    Location
    Hitchin, United Kingdom
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Specialises in strategy, creativity, design and innovative advertising technology.

    Specialises in strategy, creativity, design and innovative advertising technology.

    We set ourselves apart from our counterparts with our approach to Digital Marketing by delivering Media First solutions, by being who we are as humans, and by delivering real results for you and your business.  [... view BKC Media Pty Ltd profile ]
    Location
    Coolangatta, Australia
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $175/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • We create solutions using technology and design!

    We create solutions using technology and design!

    A digital agency from Rio de Janeiro focused on solving problems!  [... view Fattoria profile ]
    Location
    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
  • Lighting The Path To Innovation.

    Lighting The Path To Innovation.

    Attico International is a Drupal agency, rendering full-cycle development services from consulting and QA to support and maintenance. We are a team of 60+ professionals working from 10 countries around the world with the headquarters in Lithuania.  [... view Attico International profile ]
    Location
    Vilnius, Lithuania
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Professional Website Development & Link Building Solutions

    Professional Website Development & Link Building Solutions

    UpSites is a professional website development and link building agency with a strong track record since 2016. We create over 150 high-quality websites annually, focusing on SEO and user experience. Our link building services have helped top companies such as Adobe, Binance, Kommo, and Mailchimp enhance their  [... view UpSites Digital profile ]
    Location
    Sao Paulo, Brazil
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $20/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • Making Technology Work for You.

    Making Technology Work for You.

    Crafting stunning websites that not only look great but also perform at their best. We offer a comprehensive range of services to meet your organization/business needs. We leverage the latest technologies to provide innovative result-oriented solutions that enhance user experience and engagement.  [... view Amedia Technology profile ]
    Location
    New York City, New York
    Number of Employees
    50 - 99
    Average Hourly Rate
    $50/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
  • Digital Marketing For Small Businesses

    Digital Marketing For Small Businesses

    PX Media is a full-service digital marketing and creative agency based in Pasadena, California. With 24 years of experience, the agency delivers tailored solutions across web design, SEO, PPC, branding, content marketing, and managed hosting. Known for its emphasis on transparency and results, PX Media  [... view PX Media profile ]
    Location
    Pasadena, California
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $65/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Your partner to derive innovation with artificial intelligence.

    Your partner to derive innovation with artificial intelligence.

    We will help you build MVP with integrating artificial intellignece and help you scale your MVP with lowering your operational cost by 30%  [... view Mexsol profile ]
    Location
    Lahore, Pakistan
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $25/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    5 Projects Listed
  • Define. Design. Develop.

    Define. Design. Develop.

    Desilo transforms visionary ideas into impactful digital products through design-driven development. Specializing in SaaS, UI/UX, and end-to-end development, we deliver intuitive, high-quality solutions tailored to user needs and business goals. Our expertise spans startups and enterprises, focusing on  [... view Desilo Technologies Pvt. Ltd. profile ]
    Location
    Ahmedabad, India
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $25/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000
    Portfolios Count
    1 Project Listed
  • Your Trusted Digital Growth Partner

    Your Trusted Digital Growth Partner

    Creatives Goal is a digital marketing and web agency dedicated to helping businesses transform and grow through customized, results-driven solutions. With over six years of experience, the agency supports companies of all sizes by delivering tailored strategies that align with their unique goals and  [... view Creatives Goal profile ]
    Location
    Kalispell, Montana
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $100/hr
    Minimal Budget
    Under $1,000
  • Developing new sites with clients and programmer friends

    Developing new sites with clients and programmer friends

    WordPress and Laravel Experts. Development plugins, themes and Laravel projects  [... view CH Consulting profile ]
    Location
    Santander, Spain
    Number of Employees
    Under 49
    Average Hourly Rate
    $60/hr
    Minimal Budget
    $1,000 - $10,000

Backend Development Company Hiring Guide

What is a backend development company?

A backend development company is a company that ensures an application or a website’s server-side components remain robust, efficient, and capable of handling the demands of the frontend interface. Through various programming languages and frameworks, it creates systems that can securely process requests, manage information, and guarantee seamless communication between users and servers.  

Backend development companies enhance the reliability and scalability of technology infrastructures, enabling businesses to effectively tackle the following challenges: 

  • Inefficiencies in integrating different systems and technologies 
  • Struggle with managing and analyzing large volumes of data 
  • Frequent downtime and performance issues 
  • Lack of technical expertise needed to implement secure authentication and authorization mechanisms 
  • Difficulties in scaling websites to accommodate growth 
  • Errors and losses due to the absence of data consistency and integrity 
  • Decreased performance and bottleneck in project management 
  • Low user satisfaction and retention

The increasing demand for reliable backend development services is reflected in the global web development market's projected value of $130.9 billion by 2032. This growth is partly driven by the fact that 93% of enterprises face downtime costs exceeding $300,000 per hour. 

Success Story 

The industry trends show how vital backend development is for smooth website operations. Designli has published a case study of its project that emphasizes the urgent need for effective backend solutions to reduce disruptions. 

  • Challenge: Secur.Space, a platform for facilitating on-demand access to transport vehicles, identified a significant gap in the industry. Truck operators faced difficulties finding convenient short-term storage options despite the availability of underutilized industrial lots. This situation prompted Secur.Space to find a reliable backend solution to manage a network of storage facilities for truck parking and container storage. 
  • Solution: Designli performed a code review of the existing web application to enhance the pace of ongoing feature iterations. The team recognized the need for user-friendly functionality and improved the user interface with an intuitive map feature for better visualization. Using Express, NodeJS, and React, the backend developers enriched the web infrastructure in response to market demands. 
  • Results: The strategic partnership between Designli and Secur.Space led to an enhanced web application, which quickly gained traction. The product efficiently catered to the growing real-time demands of trucking and logistics companies. Designli’s agile approach allowed the client to iterate on the product post-launch and align with market trends and user feedback

What do backend development companies do?

Backend web development companies build server-side infrastructure and logic that power websites, applications, and digital platforms. They develop and manage databases, server-side programming, and APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) and ensure the seamless integration of various systems.  

Backend developers work with technologies such as Node.js, Python, Java, Ruby, and SQL, among others, to create the underlying frameworks that handle data processing, user authentication, business logic, and other core functionalities. These companies ensure that applications are scalable, secure, and perform efficiently behind the scenes. 

Their backend development services include: 

  • Server-side development 
    Writing backend code, typically using languages like PHP, Python, Ruby, or Node.js, to process client-side requests and handle business logic and rules 
  • Web server configuration 
    Setting up and managing web servers like Apache or Nginx to ensure proper hosting of applications, including load balancing and security configurations 
  • API development 
    Creating and managing APIs that allow different frontend components to communicate with backend services for data exchange and functionality 
  • Database development and management
    Designing and implementing databases to store, retrieve, and manage data effectively, including data modeling, querying, and optimization 
  • Cloud integration
    Implementing cloud services to host applications and manage infrastructure for scalability, security, and cost-effectiveness 
  • Security measures 
    Implementing security protocols such as authentication, authorization, and data encryption to protect secure data from vulnerabilities 
  • Performance optimization 
    Analyzing and improving the speed and efficiency of applications by optimizing code, databases, and server configurations to handle high traffic and large datasets 
  • Maintenance and support 
    Offering ongoing maintenance services, such as bug fixes, updates, and performance monitoring to stay current 

Success Story 

To illustrate the transformative effects of robust backend development services, we selected the following case study, which explores how Groovy Web streamlined UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Compliance's document management processes while navigating complex regulations. 

  • Challenge: UKVI Compliance needed a comprehensive web-based solution that could efficiently manage the documentation of immigrant workers and sponsorship licenses essential for compliance with Home Office requirements. 
  • Solution: Groovy Web provided a multifaceted solution that involved securing document storage with encryption and efficient record maintenance tools. The development technology stack included PHP, Yii2, Node.js, and JavaScript. Notable features like the CSV import tool and optical character recognition (OCR) capabilities significantly improved data integration and document management efficiency. 
  • Results: The collaborative efforts, which took 269 days, resulted in the platform's successful deployment. This greatly reduced processing time for document handling and compliance tasks, for which the client expressed high satisfaction

What is the difference between an API and a backend service?

The difference between an API and a backend service lies in their purpose in web application architecture.  

An API is a set of protocols and tools that allows different software applications to communicate with each other. It acts as an intermediary that exposes certain functionalities and enables other software or users to interact with it without having direct access to the internal workings. 

On the other hand, a backend service refers to the underlying systems and server-side logic that power an application or website. It handles tasks such as data processing and server communication.

APIBackend Service
Serves as a communication interface between different software systemsManages the core logic, database interactions, and operations of the app or website
Focuses on making specific requests and returning data Responsible for long-term data storage and complex processing tasks 
Can be used by both internal systems and external clients like third-party apps Primarily handles internal processes and ensures core features are properly functioning 
Usually based on standard protocols like HTTP, REST, or GraphQL Operates using server-side technologies like Node.js, Ruby on Rails, or Python 
Acts as a gateway to access backend services Implements the actual logic, processes, and business rules of the web application 

Essentially, while an API provides the interface for external communication, the backend service is the engine that carries out the heavy lifting behind the scenes. 

How much does backend development services cost?

Backend development services generally cost $3,000 to $14,000, typically as a one-time payment. The pricing will depend on the following factors: 

  • Project complexity 
  • Tech stack 
  • Database design 
  • APIs and other third-party integrations 
  • Scalability requirements 
  • Customization needs 
  • Layers of security 
  • The backend developers' location, experience, and expertise 

Why should I hire a backend development company?

You should hire a backend development company because it brings extensive experience and expertise to accelerate development timelines, reduce the risk of errors, and maintain high-performance standards. Moreover, enlisting back end solutions from a specialized team allows you to focus on your core business activities and strategic growth while entrusting the technical complexities to professionals.  

When you partner with seasoned back end developers, you: 

  • Get access to extensive knowledge in backend technologies and best practices 
  • Automate testing and deployment processes for faster release cycles and higher code quality 
  • Accommodate increasing user demands without performance issues 
  • Protect sensitive data and prevent vulnerabilities with best security practices 
  • Ensure your digital product remains functional and up to date with evolving technologies 
  • Improve responsiveness and uptime with load-balancing strategies to distribute traffic evenly across servers 
  • Smoothly migrate data from legacy systems to modern backend frameworks 
  • Support real-time data processing and streaming for dynamic applications 
  • Reduce hiring and training costs for in-house developers 

Success Story 

The following case study presents the significant advantages a business can gain from partnering with a specialized agency: 

  • Challenge: LeoSpot Finance sought to enhance its existing credit card management system and aimed to develop a new platform, RedLeo. The goal was to provide secure and customizable card management solutions suitable for organizations requiring detailed control over card issuance and user access. 
  • Solution: Peiko optimized the existing codebase and built the new RedLeo platform using PHP (Laravel) for backend operations. The team incorporated sophisticated management processes for card issuance, monitoring, and updates, along with a customizable access management framework. It also ensured the tool's compliance with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI-DSS) standards. 
  • Results: Peiko's solutions resulted in a powerful and efficient web application tailored to the client's specifications. The project involved over 2,200 hours of high-quality backend development, 600 hours of efficient quality assurance, and a modern UI/UX design that enhanced operational efficiency. The success of RedLeo positioned the client favorably in the market and gave it better control over the business

How do I choose the best backend development services for my business?

Follow these guidelines when choosing the best backend development services for your business: 

  1. Identify your business's technical requirements 
    Clearly define your objectives and the backend functionalities you require, such as data management, API integration, cloud support, or server-side logic. 
  2. Find potential agency partners online 
    Research on Google or Bing, credible blog lists, and directories like DesignRush. Focus your search on companies that specialize in the technologies, programming languages, and frameworks aligned with your project. 
  3. Evaluate portfolio and technical expertise 
    Look for success stories, client reviews, and examples of similar projects they’ve handled to understand their ability to meet your needs. 
  4. Check infrastructure and security capabilities 
    Since backend systems often handle sensitive data, see if they follow industry-standard security practices. 
  5. Build a shortlist and send requests for proposals (RFPs) 
    Based on your initial research, list the five back end developers you deem most fitting for your requirements. Submit RFPs to them. 
  6. Receive proposals and conduct interviews 
    After thoroughly reading the shortlisted candidates' custom proposals, ask them to meet them for interviews. 
  7. Assess communication and support 
    During the meeting, verify their performance optimization strategies to catch up with increasing user traffic. These can include load balancing, caching, and database management. 
  8. Deliberate for final evaluations 
    Understand and compare each agency's payment model. Consider their methodology and expected timelines. See if they align well with the proposed pricing for a balanced and efficient approach. 
  9. Decide and sign a contract 
    Review the contract terms for a clearly defined scope, ownership of code, and any additional fees for maintenance or future updates. Ultimately, choose the backend development company that offers expertise, flexibility, quicker iterations, and quality. 

Need assistance? DesignRush can help in your search. Leave your project details via our Marketplace and we’ll take it from there. We’ll comb through our listing for backend development services that best match your specific needs — free of charge. 

How do I find the best backend development services on DesignRush that fit my budget?

Find the best backend development services on DesignRush that fit your budget by browsing our thoughtfully curated list of providers. Use our versatile sorting features to search agencies by budget, ranging from $1,000 to over $50,000. You can also refine your search based on hourly rates. 

Three of the most budget-friendly agencies in our directory are as follows: 

Our platform offers comprehensive profiles, enabling you to assess agencies based on their location, areas of expertise, client feedback, and team size. This ensures a thorough evaluation to assist you in selecting the most suitable option for your financial plan.

What questions should I ask backend development companies before hiring one?

Ask backend development companies the following questions before hiring one to assess their capabilities, processes, and culture fit: 

Its Relevant Background 

  1. What industries have you previously worked with? 
  2. What relevant certifications and partnerships do you have with technology providers? 
  3. How long have your core team members been working in backend development? 
  4. What is the size and composition of your development team? 
  5. How do you stay updated with the latest technology trends and updates? 
  6. How do you manage risk and ensure project delivery on time and within budget? 

Its Services and Processes

  1. What specific backend technologies and frameworks do you specialize in?
  2. Do you offer integration services with third-party APIs or platforms?
  3. What database technologies do you work with?
  4. What development tools and environments do you use?
  5. How do you handle project management and communication during development?
  6. What is your approach to security and data protection?
  7. What is included in your ongoing maintenance and support services?
  8. How do you handle code reviews, quality assurance, and testing processes?
  9. What documentation do you provide throughout the development process?

Relevant to Your Project

  1. What is your understanding of our requirements and goals?
  2. How do you plan to approach the specific challenges of our project?
  3. What is your estimated timeline for completion based on our project specifications?
  4. How do you handle budget overruns or unforeseen expenses?
  5. Who will be our primary point of contact?
  6. How often will you provide updates and progress reports?
  7. What are your success metrics for projects like ours? 

What are the best backend development companies in the US?

The best backend development companies in the US are: 

  1. Infinum
    • 4.7 stars on DesignRush (4 reviews) 
    • Top clients: Porsche, Nike, CITI, P&G 
  2. Bilberrry  
    • 4.9 stars on DesignRush (24 reviews) 
    • Top clients: Delta Airlines, Deloitte, PepsiCo, University of Washington 
  3. Digital Silk 
    • 4.9 stars on DesignRush (38 reviews) 
    • 4.8 stars on Google (32 reviews) 
    • Top clients: IBM, NYU, Sony, Microsoft 
  4. AnyforSoft 
    • 4.5 stars on DesignRush (2 reviews) 
    • Top clients: Stage Entertainment, Projektmagazin, Bellame, Tilde 
  5. Web3box 
    • 5.0 stars on Google (11 reviews) 
    • Top clients: Punt Gaming LLC, FoundationCCC, PDUnow.com (NetCBT), Nitro 

About The Author and Expert Reviewer

Robert de Wit has a diverse background in advertising, marketing, IT, and healthcare. With a history as both a copywriter and a video game journalist, he specializes in SEO, long-form content creation, and crafting compelling copy that drives results. Currently, he writes about website and interface design at DesignRush, delivering the latest industry insights and analysis.

Former Development Director

Sergio is a technology leader with over six years of experience managing global teams and delivering projects across fintech, sportstech, and B2B platforms. At DesignRush, he drove product growth and development execution, building tools that speed up processes by 95% and cut costs by 35% while maintaining full uptime.