API Client

Definition

An API Client refers to the application or service invoking the APIs. The identity of the API Client must be registered and authenticated in the API management system. Each API Client is assigned a unique identifier (e.g., Client ID and API Key) for access control and monitoring.

Advantages

• Authentication and Tracking: Each API Client has a unique identifier, allowing precise tracking of usage and authorization.

• Custom Configuration: Enables setting exclusive quotas, rate-limits, or permission strategies for different API Clients.

• Enhanced Security: Access is controlled via API Client authorization mechanisms (e.g., API Key or OAuth Token).

Use Cases

• Application Separation: Internal and external applications are treated as different API Clients with distinct security strategies.

• Third-party Integration: Provides a registration process for third-party developers, allowing their applications to become API Clients and access APIs.

• Multi-layer Tracking: Assigns a unique API Key to each application to precisely track traffic sources and usage.

Standard Operating Process

1. Register the API Client:

   • Clients register with the API Management system, providing application names and descriptions.

   • The system assigns a unique Client ID and secret (e.g., API Key or Client Secret).

2. Authorize and Configure:

   • Assign Scopes and quotas (e.g., number of requests per second).

   • Configure specific security strategies (e.g., IP restrictions or JWT Token validation).

3. Authentication and Requesting:

   • Clients use API Key or Token to send requests to the APIs.

   • The API Gateway validates the identity and checks authorization Scopes.

4. Traffic Monitoring and Management:

   • Monitor API Client traffic data, error rates, and performance.

   • Dynamically adjust rate-limiting strategies or revoke authorization if needed.