Retry Storm
Definition
A retry wave amplifies disturbances through many simultaneous retry attempts.
An overload where many clients simultaneously retry errors, thereby further burdening the disturbed system.
Simply explained
If everyone knocks again simultaneously after an error, the overloaded service is pressured even more.
Why it matters in practice
The term contributes to secure, maintainable, and high-performance web applications as well as resilient technical decisions.
Example from business
After a timeout, thousands of clients retry simultaneously and further overload the service.
Limits and pitfalls
- Configuring retries without jitter, limits, circuit breakers, or centralized load control.
Origin & history
The phenomenon became especially relevant with large distributed systems and cascading failures.
Use in mid-sized companies
- Possible example: After a timeout, thousands of clients retry simultaneously and further overload the service.
Frequently asked questions
What does a wave of retry attempts mean?
An overload where many clients simultaneously retry errors, thereby further burdening the disturbed system. What mistakes should be avoided? Configuring retries without jitter, limits, circuit breakers, or centralized load control.
Sources
Source checked on 10.10.2026. Editorial usage examples are hypothetical; no evidence of real customer results.
Editorially reviewed on: