API Gateway
An API gateway manages all traffic between your AI agent and external services - handling authentication, rate limits, and security in one place.
An API gateway is a server that acts as the single entry point for API calls - handling authentication, rate limiting, request routing, and monitoring for all traffic between AI agents and external services.
Single Entry Point
All API traffic flows through one gateway. Centralizes authentication, logging, and monitoring regardless of how many services the agent connects to.
Authentication Management
Manage API keys, OAuth tokens, and service credentials centrally. Rotate keys without changing agent configuration.
Rate Limiting
Prevent API abuse and control costs by limiting request rates per service, per user, or per time window.
Request Routing
Route API calls to the correct backend service based on path, headers, or content - enabling clean separation of concerns.
Traffic Monitoring
Track API call volumes, response times, error rates, and costs across all integrated services from one dashboard.
Failover & Retry
Automatic retry for failed API calls with exponential backoff. Route to backup services when primary endpoints are down.
FAQ
Do I need my own API gateway?
For most businesses, no. OpenClaw includes gateway capabilities. Enterprise clients with existing API infrastructure (AWS API Gateway, Kong, Apigee) can integrate the agent through their existing gateway.
Does an API gateway add latency?
Minimal - typically 1-5 milliseconds. The security, monitoring, and reliability benefits far outweigh the negligible latency addition.
Can it handle high traffic volumes?
Yes. API gateways are designed for high throughput. Cloud-based gateways scale automatically based on traffic volume.
Secure your AI integrations
Learn how API gateways protect your agent connections.