Internal knowledge search architecture
The following section provides a high-level overview of common architecture approaches for the internal knowledge search use case (AKA workplace search).
Hybrid architecture
Data is synced to an Elastic Cloud deployment through managed connectors and/or self-managed connectors. A self-managed search application exposes the relevant data that your end users are authorized to see in a search experience.
Summary:
- The best combination in terms of flexibility and out-of-the box functionality
- Integrates with Elastic Cloud hosted managed connectors to bring data to Elasticsearch with minimal operational overhead
- Self-managed connectors allow enterprises to adhere to strict access policies when using firewalls that don’t allow incoming connections to data sources, while outgoing traffic is easier to control
- Provides additional functionality available for self-managed connectors such as the Extraction Service
- Basic functionality available for Standard licenses, advanced features for Platinum licenses
The following diagram provides a high-level overview of the hybrid internal knowledge search architecture.
Self-managed architecture
Data is synced to an Elastic deployment through self-managed connectors. A self-managed search application exposes the relevant data that your end users are authorized to see in a search experience.
Summary:
- Gives flexibility to build custom solutions tailored to specific business requirements and internal processes
- Allows enterprises to adhere to strict access policies when using firewalls that don’t allow incoming connections to data sources, while outgoing traffic is easier to control
- Provides additional functionality available for self-managed connectors such as the Extraction Service
- Feasible for air-gapped environments
- Requires Platinum license for full spectrum of features and self-managed connectors
The following diagram provides a high-level overview of the self-managed internal knowledge search architecture.
© 2023-2025 Elasticsearch
As of September 2024, Elasticsearch is available under a choice of three licenses: the Server Side Public License (SSPL), the Elastic License, or the AGPLv3 (OSI approved).
Elasticsearch and the Elasticsearch logo are trademarks of Elasticsearch B.V., registered in the U.S. and in other countries.
https://www.elastic.co/guide/en/elasticsearch/reference/8.17/es-connectors-overview-architecture.html