The API Gateway pattern
When developing applications based on complex or large microservices established on multiple client applications, it is recommended to use the API Gateway pattern.
Definition
The API Gateway pattern is an integration pattern for clients that communicate with a system service, designed to provide a single abstraction layer between the underlying services and the customer’s needs. This is the single entry point for all clients. It is similar to the Façade pattern of object-oriented programming (OOP) design, but in this case, it’s part of a distributed system.
The API Gateway pattern is often referred to as Backend for Frontend because its implementation is based on the needs of the client application. The pattern provides a reverse proxy whose purpose is to redirect or route client requests to internal microservices endpoints.
When should you consider using the API Gateway pattern? The following list specifies when it is suitable...