Rate limiting is a technique that controls how many requests a client can make to an API within a specific time frame. It helps protect your API from being overwhelmed by too many requests, whether from accidental overuse or malicious attacks. By setting clear limits, you ensure your API remains reliable, stable, and fair for all users. Rate limiting is essential for preventing service outages, reducing server costs, and maintaining a positive experience for everyone who uses your API.

How API Gateways Use Rate Limiting

API Gateways use rate limiting to control how many requests a client can make to your APIs in a specific period. This helps you:

• Protect backend services from being overwhelmed by too many requests;
• Prevent abusive behavior, such as denial-of-service (DoS) attacks;
• Ensure fair usage among all users.

Rate limiting works by setting rules, such as allowing only 100 requests per minute for each user. If a user exceeds this limit, the gateway blocks extra requests and returns an error message, often with a 429 Too Many Requests status code.

Simple Example

Suppose you set a rule: each client can make up to 10 requests per second. If a client tries to send 15 requests in one second, the API Gateway lets the first 10 through and rejects the next 5 with an error response.

This approach ensures your services stay reliable and available, even when traffic spikes or someone tries to misuse your APIs.