APIs are the bloodstream of modern digital services, connecting apps, users, data, and devices in real time. And yet, what ensures these interactions are reliable, secure, and fast? Enter the API gateway. Not all gateways are created equal, and that’s where we need to look at A10 Networks.
Let’s talk about why A10’s approach to API gateways is redefining what organisations should expect.
What Exactly Is an API Gateway?
In the simplest terms, an API gateway sits between your users and your backend services. It intercepts incoming requests, authenticates them, routes traffic to the correct endpoints, and applies whatever policies you’ve defined, rate limits, caching, logging, even protocol conversion. It’s the gatekeeper, the translator, and sometimes the bodyguard.
In environments powered by microservices, containers, or multi-cloud setups, having a reliable gateway is vital.
What Sets A10 Networks Apart?
Built-in Security, Not Bolted On
A10 doesn’t treat API security as an afterthought. Thanks to its integration of ThreatX, security is part of the gateway’s DNA. We’re talking dynamic threat detection, behavioral analytics, and real-time defense mechanisms that actually evolve with the threats. It’s not just WAF-level security slapped on top, it’s intelligent, adaptive protection baked right in.
Programmable Control with aXAPI
Whether you’re managing hundreds of APIs or automating CI/CD pipelines, A10’s aXAPI gives you precise, programmable control over the gateway layer. You want full automation? Done. Need to monitor traffic patterns and adjust thresholds on the fly? Also done. This isn’t just DevOps-friendly, it’s DevOps-optimised.
Consistency Across Environments
Whether your services live in AWS, Azure, on-prem, or scattered across edge devices, A10’s Harmony Controller ties it all together. One dashboard. One policy engine. No handoffs between tools or gaps in visibility.
Built for Microservices from the Ground Up
Microservices introduce complexity, plain and simple. A10’s API gateway handles that with intelligent routing, service discovery, session management, and more. Whether your stack is built on Kubernetes, Docker, or a mash-up of legacy and new tech, A10 adapts to your world, not the other way around.
A10 vs. the Rest: Feature Snapshot
Here’s how A10’s gateway solution stacks up against typical alternatives:
| Feature | A10 Networks API Gateway | Conventional Gateway Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| AI Security Integration | ✔ Included (via ThreatX) | ✘ Often external or minimal |
| Automation Support | ✔ Full via aXAPI | ✔ Partial or custom scripts |
| Multi-Cloud Compatibility | ✔ Uniform across platforms | ✘ Cloud-tied or fragmented |
| Central Management | ✔ Harmony Controller | ✘ Often requires multiple tools |
| Modern API Support | ✔ REST, GraphQL, AsyncAPI | ✔ Varies widely |
| Bot Mitigation | ✔ Built-in with real-time AI | ✘ Usually third-party add-on |
| Performance Optimizations | ✔ Caching, TLS offload, etc. | ✔ Basic, but less efficient |
| Eco-Conscious Design | ✔ Low-latency, green-friendly | ✘ Not a design consideration |
Trends That Matter
- Smart Security: The threat landscape isn’t standing still, and neither should your defenses. AI is becoming non-optional.
- Protocol Flexibility: REST isn’t the only player anymore, expect GraphQL and event-driven APIs to keep growing.
- Edge Enablement: Lower latency, better experiences, especially where IoT or mobile networks are involved.
- Sustainability Push: Efficient infrastructure isn’t just cheaper, it’s better for the planet and public perception.
Getting Started with A10
Adopting A10’s API gateway is about fortifying and future-proofing your architecture. Start with a security and performance audit. Evaluate how much visibility you actually have across your APIs. Then explore how programmable interfaces and centralised control can simplify your operations and unlock new efficiencies.
Contact our experts today to discuss A10 Networks Solutions: https://exertisenterprise.com/a10-networks/
