What is API rate limiting and why is it important?

What is API rate limiting and why is it important?

API rate limiting is a technique used to control the amount of incoming requests to an API. It's important because it helps prevent abuse, ensures fair usage, and maintains the performance and reliability of the service.

How does rate limiting protect against DDoS attacks?

Rate limiting can mitigate DDoS attacks by restricting the number of requests a user can make in a given timeframe, thus preventing overwhelming the server.

What are some common strategies for implementing rate limiting?

Common strategies include token bucket, leaky bucket, fixed window, and sliding window algorithms, each with its own advantages.

Can you give an example of a real-world application of rate limiting?

Sure! Many social media platforms use rate limiting to control how many posts or messages a user can send in a short period to prevent spam.

What happens if a user exceeds the rate limit?

If a user exceeds the rate limit, they typically receive an error response, often with a message indicating they've hit the limit and may need to wait before making more requests.