Azure API Management

Technical Overview

Azure API Management is a fully managed service that enables organizations to create, publish, secure, analyze, and manage APIs in a scalable environment. It simplifies API lifecycle management and provides tools for monitoring and monetizing APIs. API Management can act as a gateway for APIs, ensuring seamless integration between backend services and applications.

Key Components:

1. API Gateway: A central point to manage and secure API calls.
2. Developer Portal: A customizable portal where developers can discover APIs, understand usage policies, and access documentation.
3. Policy Engine: Allows administrators to apply rules such as rate limits, access controls, caching, and transformations on API calls.
4. Analytics: Provides insights into API usage, performance, and trends.

Real-World Use Case

Scenario: Centralized API Management for a Banking System
A bank operates multiple APIs for online banking, mobile applications, third-party payment processors, and internal systems. To enhance security, scalability, and governance, Azure API Management is implemented.

Implementation:

1. API Gateway: Aggregate all APIs (e.g., account management, transaction history, fund transfers) under a single gateway.
2. Developer Portal: Allow third-party developers to register and access APIs securely with usage quotas.
3. Policy Engine:
   • Implement rate limiting to prevent misuse of APIs.
   • Enforce API authentication with Azure Active Directory (AAD).
   • Transform responses based on client requirements (e.g., formatting or localization).
4. Analytics: Monitor API usage to identify popular endpoints and optimize backend resources.

Resources

• Azure API Management Documentation