What is rate limiting and why is it important?

What is rate limiting and why is it important?

Rate limiting is a technique used to control the amount of incoming requests to a server. It's important to prevent abuse, ensure fair usage, and maintain performance.

How does rate limiting work in APIs?

In APIs, rate limiting works by setting a maximum number of requests a user can make in a given time frame, like 100 requests per hour.

What happens if I exceed the rate limit?

If you exceed the rate limit, the server typically responds with an error message, often a 429 Too Many Requests status.

Can I increase my rate limit?

Yes, many APIs allow you to request an increase in your rate limit, often through a subscription plan or by contacting support.

Are there different types of rate limiting?

Yes, common types include fixed window, sliding window, and token bucket rate limiting, each with its own method of tracking requests.