API Gateway
An API Gateway is a centralised service that acts as a bridge between client applications and backend services. It helps manage and optimise the interactions between client apps and the various microservices or APIs they rely on.
Think of it as a gatekeeper that controls access to the different services within a system. Instead of client apps directly communicating with individual services, they can interact with the API Gateway, which then handles requests and forwards them to the appropriate services.
The API Gateway has several important functions. Firstly, it provides a unified entry point, making it easier for developers to access multiple services through a single API. Secondly, it can perform tasks like authentication, authorization, rate limiting, and caching to enhance security and performance. Lastly, it enables better monitoring and analytics, allowing administrators to track usage patterns and diagnose issues.