6 Big Reasons to Use an API Gateway

API gateways are more important than ever in today’s world, especially for businesses. But what exactly is an API gateway? Plus, more importantly, why should you care?

Before diving into the details, let’s first discuss an API gateway.

1. API Gateway: A Definition

Many people want to know what is api gateway. It’s an Application Programming Interface (API), a management tool that sits between the application and the microservices. Essentially, it’s the glue that keeps everything together across software, web applications, and mobile apps.

Here’s an example: Netflix’s API gateway. You’ve heard of Netflix. They’re the world’s most significant movie and TV show streaming service. Well, they use their API. But rather than go with a one-size-fits-all API gateway, Netflix’s API runs a client-specific adapter code, making life easier for everyone.

Now that’s covered, this guide will discuss 5 big reasons your business should use an API gateway:

2. Better Security

In an age where cyberthreats are never far away, businesses need as much security as possible while operating in the ‘cloud.’ Because an API gateway sits between the application and microservices, it effectively acts as a security blanket, ensuring that no API Endpoints are exposed to hackers and cybercriminals.

Remember, APIs are vulnerable when left exposed, which you don’t want as a modern business or developer. Instead, use an API gateway to eliminate security risks, protect your finances, and keep sensitive information private.

3. Useful Analytics

Most API gateways provide users with helpful analytics that can be used for monitoring API use and generating scheduled custom reports. Not bad, right? Essentially, it’s a friendly and easy way to figure out what’s happening behind the scenes, such as monthly website visits. Businesses can make intelligent and educated decisions moving forward from these analytics.

4. Rate-limiting

Next, an API gateway can set rate limits, the number of API calls an app or user can make at a time. This stops websites and apps from crashing due to too much traffic. Without rate limiting, the internet would be in absolute chaos, as thousands of apps would fail daily.

5. Easier Code

API gateways generally use short code, which is excellent news for businesses and their clients. Complications are kept to a minimum, which keeps all parties happy because code is much easier to write.

6. Decreased Latency

Finally, API gateways help to decrease any potential low latency. This is because there are fewer back-and-forth calls between the application and its microservices, meaning the network connection can stay fast and strong. This is a life saver for clients, as nobody wants to be dealing with poor-quality network connections in 2022!

Conclusion

Thanks for reading this article that’s all about API gateways. Hopefully, you now understand exactly what an API gateway is and its benefits to businesses, from increased security to super-intelligent analytics.