[tylfin]

I don't think the term "Microkernel Architecture" should be used in this context. I think "Modular Architecture," (or Plug-in like is mentioned) gets closer to this extension-based pattern.

The reason being that there's no relevance to the kernel, and modular kernels, also take this approach with replaceable plug-ins or extensions.

[zerkten]

I think people gravitate to it because "kernel" feels like a cool word and some people have heard of OS microkernels being modular. As you say, "modular architecture" is a much clearer way to express the intent and conveys the purpose without being pretentious.

[kapep]

I don't think "Microkernel Architecture" is the same as "Modular Architecture". I've only heard the term "Microkernel Architecture" used for systems that have clear public extensions points that enables users to choose which plugins to run or even add third-party plugins.

"Modular Architecture" is more broad in my opinion and rather a description of internal structure. A "modular monolith" for example is modular but doesn't necessarily have a "core" nor is it required to be extensible with plugins by users.