Clean Architecture is often misunderstood as a rigid folder hierarchy, but its core principle revolves around dependency management, not directory layouts. Developers frequently mistake the famous Clean Architecture (CA) diagram for a strict project structure, but Simon Brown’s “missing chapter” in Uncle Bob’s book clarifies: it’s about dependency direction, not folders.
Key Takeaways:
- No Mandatory Layers: Clean Architecture benefits don’t require layered folders—just correct dependency flow.
- Dependency Rule: Inner layers (Domain) should never depend on outer layers (Infrastructure).
For deeper insights, refer to Milan Jovanović’s article: Clean Architecture Dependency Guide.
You Should Know:
Validating Dependency Flow in Projects
To enforce Clean Architecture principles, use these code and CLI techniques:
1. .NET Dependency Validation
Use `Microsoft.DependencyValidation.Analyzers` to enforce layer rules:
<PackageReference Include="Microsoft.DependencyValidation.Analyzers" Version="1.0.0" />
Configure `.ruleset` to block violations (e.g., Domain referencing Infrastructure).
2. Linux/Windows Dependency Checks
- Linux (CLI): Use `ldd` to inspect binary dependencies:
ldd ./your_application | grep "forbidden_library"
- Windows (PowerShell): Scan assemblies with
Get-Assembly:
3. Architectural Tests
Leverage `NetArchTest.Rules` in .NET to enforce design rules:
var result = Types.InCurrentDomain()
.That().ResideInNamespace("Domain")
.ShouldNot().HaveDependencyOn("Infrastructure")
.GetResult();
4. Docker & Microservices
Isolate layers in containers to enforce boundaries:
Domain layer (no external deps) FROM mcr.microsoft.com/dotnet/sdk AS domain COPY ./Domain ./ App layer (depends on Domain) FROM domain AS application COPY ./Application ./
What Undercode Say
Clean Architecture’s power lies in dependency inversion, not directory pedantry. Use static analysis, automated tests, and containerization to enforce boundaries. Over-focusing on folders risks missing the architectural intent—maintainable, decoupled systems.
Expected Output:
- A .NET project with
Domain,Application, and `Infrastructure` projects. - CI/CD pipelines failing on dependency violations.
- Dockerized microservices respecting layer isolation.
Prediction
As modular monoliths gain traction, Clean Architecture will shift toward dynamic dependency graphs (e.g., using IoC containers like Autofac or Lamar) rather than physical project splits. Static validation tools will become critical for enforcement.
References:
Reported By: Milan Jovanovic – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅
