What it does
Amazon API Gateway is a managed front door for APIs backed by AWS or other web services. It supports stateless REST and HTTP APIs as well as stateful WebSocket APIs. The developer guide walks through choosing an API type and backend integration, then publishing and managing the API; the service also provides controls for authorization, throttling, monitoring, versions, and custom domains.
API Gateway is aimed at teams exposing their own application logic through a managed API endpoint, rather than a client library that calls a third-party service. The API type matters: HTTP APIs offer a simpler proxy-oriented route, REST APIs add management features, and WebSocket APIs keep a connection open for two-way messages. AWS meters API calls and data transfer, and the pricing page also describes a limited new-customer free tier, so a cost estimate needs the API type and expected traffic rather than only a request count.
Strengths
- Supports REST, HTTP, and WebSocket API patterns for different backend and real-time workflows.
- Provides integrated authorization, throttling, monitoring, version management, and API portal features.
- The official pricing page describes a limited free usage tier for new AWS customers, followed by usage-based rates.
Watch out for
- The API type must be chosen to fit the intended integration and connection model.
- Data transfer, caching, PrivateLink, and connected AWS services can contribute charges in addition to API requests.
Best for
- Publishing an application or serverless backend through managed HTTP, REST, or WebSocket endpoints.
- Teams that want API authorization, throttling, logging, and deployment controls alongside their AWS backend.
Sources
- Amazon API Gateway | API Management | Amazon Web Services (Oct 25, 2026)
- What is Amazon API Gateway? - Amazon API Gateway (Oct 25, 2026)
- Amazon API Gateway Pricing (Oct 25, 2026)