Description: The API Gateway is a server that acts as a front-end for application programming interfaces (APIs), receiving requests from clients and applying security, authentication, and authorization policies. Its primary function is to manage traffic between users and backend services, facilitating communication and ensuring that requests are processed efficiently and securely. This component is essential in various architectural patterns, including microservices architectures, where multiple services must interact with each other and with clients. Additionally, it allows for the implementation of access control policies, rate limiting, and monitoring of API usage, contributing to the security and performance of the system. The API Gateway can also transform requests and responses, adapting data to the formats required by different services, which enhances interoperability. In a cloud-based DevSecOps environment, its relevance increases as it enables the integration of security practices from the beginning of the development lifecycle, ensuring that APIs are robust and protected against external threats.
