What is an API gateway in cloud computing?

An API gateway in cloud computing serves as a critical component that acts as an entry point for API requests. It effectively manages and facilitates communication between clients (such as applications or end-users) and backend services (such as microservices or databases). By routing requests from clients to the appropriate services, the API gateway helps streamline interactions and enhances overall system performance.

Moreover, the API gateway often includes additional functionalities such as request authentication, traffic management, caching, and monitoring, which contribute to a more secure and efficient API management environment. This centralized management simplifies the complexity involved in handling multiple APIs, making it easier to maintain and scale applications in cloud environments.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of an API gateway. For instance, while firewalls protect servers, they do not facilitate API requests. Similarly, API log storage relates more to data management rather than the operational role of an API gateway. Lastly, managing server load balancing is a separate function focused on distributing network or application traffic across multiple servers, which is distinct from the role of an API gateway.