N+1 Redundancy

N+1 redundancy is a system design approach that ensures continuous operation by adding one extra component beyond what is needed for normal operation. For example, if a system requires 5 servers to run smoothly, N+1 means there are actually 6 servers—so if one server fails, the remaining five can take over without any interruption. This extra component provides a safety net, increasing reliability and reducing downtime, by allowing the system to withstand the failure of a single component without disrupting overall functionality.