Rate Limiting
Definition
Request limiting sets a cap for certain calls or data volumes.
Limiting the number or amount of requests per identity, resource, or time window.
Simply explained
A service allows, for example, only a fixed number of requests per minute.
Why it matters in practice
The term contributes to secure, maintainable, and high-performance web applications as well as resilient technical decisions.
Example from business
An API allows 100 requests per minute per key.
Limits and pitfalls
- Distributed counters lead to inconsistencies, unintentionally block spikes, or send HTTP 429 without retry indication.
Origin & history
Rate limiting originated as a protection mechanism in networks and multi-user systems and is now standard in APIs.
Use in mid-sized companies
- Possible example: An API allows 100 requests per minute per key.
Frequently asked questions
What does request limiting mean?
Limiting the number or amount of requests per identity, resource, or time window. What should you watch out for? Distributed counters lead to inconsistencies, unintentionally block spikes, or send HTTP 429 without retry indication.
Sources
Source verified on 10.10.2026. Editorial application examples are hypothetical; no evidence of real customer results.
Editorially reviewed on: