Rate Limiting
A control method that caps API request volume over a time window to protect stability and cost
#rate limiting#rate limit#request throttling#API quota#traffic control
What is rate limiting?
Rate limiting is an operational control that restricts how many requests can be sent within a fixed period.
For example, if a service allows 60 requests per minute, additional requests are delayed or blocked to prevent overload.
Why does it matter?
In AI and API-heavy systems, sudden traffic spikes can cause failed requests, high latency, and cost surges.
Rate limiting is a foundational safeguard for keeping reliability and cost under control.
Common implementation patterns
- Fixed Window: limits requests per fixed time bucket
- Sliding Window: applies limits with finer time continuity
- Token Bucket: allows short bursts while controlling long-term average throughput
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