Microservices & API gateways: scalable architecture

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?

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

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?

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Related articles

• [The role of APIs in modern software architectures](/blog/die-rolle-von-apis-in-modern software architectures)
• [Interface development: The ultimate guide](/blog/interface development-of-ultimative-guide-2026-api-ent (w)
• [Interface development: The ultimate guide (2026)](/blog/schnitts-interface development-of-ultimative-guide-2026)