Microservices and API gateways: architecture for scalable systems. Learn how API gateways act as a central control level for microservices.
“Digitalization is not an IT project—it is a business strategy.”
– Björn Groenewold, Managing Director, Groenewold IT Solutions
> Key Takeaway: A microservices architecture breaks monolithic applications into independently deployable services.
The api-gateway" class="glossary-link" title="Definition in the IT glossary">API gateway serves as the central entry point, handling routing, authentication, rate limiting, and load balancing — standardizing communication between services and external clients.
Introduction
The Microservices architecture has revolutionized the way we develop and operate software.
Instead of monolithic applications, systems are divided into small, independent services that communicate via APIs.
But with this flexibility comes complexity – and here [API](/services/interface development) gateways come into play.
What is an API gateway?
Short: An API gateway is a central entry point for all client requests to your microservices.
An API gateway is a central entry point for all client requests to your microservices. It acts as a reverse proxy and performs overarching tasks that would otherwise have to be implemented in each individual service.
Routing
Keep inquiries to the right service
Authentication
Central validation of API keys and tokens
Rate limitation
Protection against overload and abuse
Monitoring
Central collection of metrics and logs
Popular API Gateway Solutions
GatewayTypeStärken
KongOpen SourceAdvanced, Plugin ecosystem AWS API GatewayManagedServerless, AWS-[Integration](/services/interface development) NginxOpen SourcePerformance, Stability TraefikOpen SourceKubernetes-native, Auto-Discovery Azure API ManagementManagedEnterprise features, Azure integration
Architecture Patterns
Backend for Frontend (BFF)
This pattern creates a separate API gateway for each client type (web, mobile, IoT). Each BFF is optimized for the specific needs of its client and aggregates data from multiple microservices.
Best Practice: Avoid implementing business logic in API gateway. It should be limited to cross-sectional tasks. The real logic belongs to the microservices.
Fazite
Short: API gateways are an indispensable part of modern microservice architectures.
API gateways are an indispensable part of modern microservice architectures. They reduce complexity, improve safety and enable central control. Choosing the right gateway depends on your specific requirements, your tech stack and your budget.
Are you planning a microservice migration?
We support you in architecture and implementation. Contact us for advice!
**Find out our [interface development](/services/interface development) and how we can support your company.
Next consultation appointment →
Related articles
- [The role of APIs in modern software architectures](/en/blog/api/the-role-of-apis-in-modern-software-architectures software architectures)
- [Interface development: The ultimate guide](/en/blog/api/the-role-of-apis-in-modern-software-architectures development-of-ultimative-guide-2026-api-ent (w)
- [Interface development: The ultimate guide (2026)](/blog/schnitts-interface development-of-ultimative-guide-2026)
References and further reading
Short: The following independent references complement the topics in this article:
The following independent references complement the topics in this article:
- Bitkom – German digital industry association
- German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI)
- European Commission – Digital strategy
- MDN Web Docs (Mozilla)
- W3C – World Wide Web Consortium
<!-- v87-geo-append -->
About the author
Managing Director of Groenewold IT Solutions GmbH and Hyperspace GmbH
For over 15 years Björn Groenewold has been developing software solutions for the mid-market. He is Managing Director of Groenewold IT Solutions GmbH and Hyperspace GmbH. As founder of Groenewold IT Solutions he has successfully supported more than 250 projects – from legacy modernisation to AI integration.
Blog recommendations
Related articles
These posts might also interest you.
API-Monetization: Market interface as a product
API monthlyization: How to successfully market your interface as a product. Business models, pricing strategies and API marketplaces.
The role of APIs in modern software architectures
APIs enable secure data exchange between systems, promote modular, scalable software and support efficient processes as well as flexible, sustainable applications.
Interface development: The ultimate guide
Comprehensive Guide to Interface Development 2026: Basics, API Architectures (REST, GraphQL, SOAP), Development Process and Current Trends. All you need to know about API development.
Free download
Checklist: 10 questions before software development
Key points before you start: budget, timeline, and requirements.
Get the checklist in a consultationRelevant next steps
Related services & solutions
Based on this article's topic, these pages are often the most useful next steps.
Related services
Related solutions
Related comparison
Cost calculators
More on Interfaces and next steps
This article is in the Interfaces topic. In our blog overview you will find all articles; under category Interfaces more posts on this subject.
For topics like Interfaces we offer matching services – from app development and AI integration to legacy modernisation and maintenance. We describe typical use cases under solutions. Our cost calculators give initial estimates. Key terms are in the IT glossary, and in-depth content under topics.
If you have questions about this article or want a non-binding discussion about your project, you can book a consultation or reach us via contact. We usually respond within one working day.