Usage-Based Routing
Definition
Usage-based routing distributes requests based on measured usage or available quotas.
An application can select targets based on load, previous consumption, or agreed usage limits. The specific rule must be named; the term is not a single fixed algorithm.
Simply explained
Like distributing jobs to workplaces that still have free capacity.
Why it matters in practice
Bottlenecks and uncontrolled consumption can be addressed more specifically.
Example from business
Hypothetical example: An AI service directs new requests to a second allowed endpoint when the first quota is exhausted.
Limits and pitfalls
- An alternative target may have different data protection, cost, or quality characteristics.
Origin & history
The approach transfers load balancing and quota control to application-related usage signals.
Use in mid-sized companies
- Distribute requests among authorized services according to defined limits.
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as quality-based routing?
No, usage signals and expected result quality are different criteria.
Sources
- Inferenz- und Ratenlimit-Dokumentation · Together AI: Inferenz- und Ratenlimit-Dokumentation –
Editorial classification of the routing pattern.
Editorially reviewed on: