API Gateway Pattern in Microservices — A Complete Guide

In a microservices architecture, managing multiple services can be complex, especially when it comes to routing, authentication, load balancing, and security. The API Gateway Pattern solves this problem by acting as a single entry point for all client requests, directing them to the appropriate microservices.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about the API Gateway Pattern, including:

1. What is API Gateway
2. How it works
3. Its features and benefits
4. Common use cases
5. Challenges and best practices
6. A real-world e-commerce example where we build:

• Eureka Server (Service Registry)
• Product Service (Handles product details)
• Order Service (Handles order placement)
• API Gateway (Routes all requests)
• Client Requests (Calls the API Gateway to access services)

1️⃣ What is the API Gateway Pattern?

The API Gateway Pattern is a design pattern used in microservices to provide a single entry point for all client requests. It acts as an intermediary between clients and microservices, handling authentication, logging, request routing, load balancing, and rate limiting.

Instead of calling multiple microservices directly, clients communicate through the…