Commonly confused

Load balancer vs API Gateway

A load balancer spreads traffic. An API gateway adds auth, rate limits, and routing for API consumers.

Load balancer

A load balancer is a device or software that distributes network traffic across multiple servers. It acts as a traffic manager, directing incoming requests to available servers to prevent any single server from becoming overwhelmed. This distribution ensures high availability.

A load balancer distributes network traffic across multiple servers, ensuring high availability and preventing overload. It's vital for reliable applica...

Full PathTerms™ definition

API Gateway

An API Gateway is a server that acts as a single entry point for clients accessing various backend services. It handles incoming requests, routes them to the appropriate microservice or application, and then returns the response to the client. This abstraction simplifies client.

An API Gateway is a single entry point for clients accessing backend services, simplifying interactions and centralizing management.

Full PathTerms™ definition

Why it matters

People mix up Load balancer and API Gateway in exam questions and job posts. Knowing the difference helps you pick the right control, process, or architecture choice.

How to remember the difference

A load balancer spreads traffic. An API gateway adds auth, rate limits, and routing for API consumers.

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