Routing: API Gateway vs. Service Mesh

Choosing the right tool:

API Gateways secure the front door, while Service Meshes manage the internal traffic flow. Choose the right tool based on your communication needs for a well-functioning microservices ecosystem.

  • API Gateway : Secure and manage external access to your microservices.
  • Service Mesh : Ensure smooth, reliable communication between internal microservices.

API Gateway: The Secure Entry Point

  • Focus : External Traffic Management
  • Value : Provides a single entry point for client requests, simplifies security (authentication, rate limiting), and adapts protocols for seamless communication with backend services.
  • Used for : Public APIs, client interactions, and centralized API management.

Service Mesh: The Decentralized Traffic Director

  • Focus : Internal Service-to-Service Communication
  • Value : Enables dynamic routing based on real-time factors, enforces security through sidecar proxies, and provides fault tolerance mechanisms for robust service communication.
  • Used for : Facilitating dynamic communication between internal microservices, promoting service resilience, and gaining deep insights for troubleshooting.