# Anatomy of an AI Application

> Deconstruct modern AI applications into their core components: LLMs, vector databases, orchestration layers, and tool integrations.

Canonical: https://codelivly.com/rooms/anatomy-of-an-ai-application
Last updated: 2026-10-07

| | |
|---|---|
| Level | Beginner |
| Category | Cybersecurity |
| Lessons | 4 |
| Estimated time | 30 min |
| XP | 100 |

This module breaks down the architecture of modern AI applications, contrasting them with traditional deterministic web apps. You will learn to identify the core components—including the orchestration layer, Large Language Models (LLMs), vector databases, and external tool integrations. By understanding how data flows between these components, you will be able to map the unique, expanded attack surface of AI systems and identify where traditional security controls fall short.

## Lessons

1. What Components Make Up a Modern AI Application (30 min)
2. The Model Layer Explained (30 min)
3. The Orchestration Layer (RAG, Tools, Memory) Explained (30 min)
4. The Frontend and API Layer Explained (30 min)

## Related

- [Learning path: AI Application Architecture and Attack Surface](https://codelivly.com/learning-paths/ai-application-architecture-and-attack-surface)
- [All rooms](https://codelivly.com/rooms)