API MANAGEMENT What is it?
In the digital world, it is no longer enough just to connect systems with each other; it is also necessary to expose the data and services these systems provide to the outside world in a controlled, secure, and scalable way. This is exactly where API Management comes into play.
API Management is a solution that enables organizations to manage their APIs end-to-end. This does not only mean publishing the API; it also covers designing, securing, monitoring, optimizing, and managing its lifecycle.
So why should we use API Management?
One of the main reasons is that our systems are now integrated not only within the company but also with the outside world.
But if we do this directly, topics such as security, versioning, and usage tracking remain uncontrolled. This is exactly where API Management comes in.
- Enables the creation of a proxy for each API, keeping backend systems hidden.
- Provides access control with security policies such as API Key and OAuth2.
- Gives developers documentation and testing opportunities through the Developer Portal.
- Answers the question “Who made how many calls, and when?” with detailed analytics.
SAP APIM Architecture and Components
The API Management architecture actually works like a chain.
- API Proxy: Calls from the user first pass through the proxy, not directly to the backend system.
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Policies: Security and performance rules are applied on the proxy.
- Rate Limit → How many calls will be accepted per second?
- OAuth2 → Who can access this API?
- CORS → Will requests from different domains be allowed?
- API Portal: The management layer where APIs are designed and published.
- Developer Portal: The layer where published APIs become visible and usable for developers.
- Backend Systems: Finally, the API endpoint is integrated with a backend system (e.g., CPI, S/4HANA, or external systems).
As Negzel Technology, we provide consultancy not only in integration but also in SAP API management.
- While designing your APIs, we focus on principles of security, performance, and sustainability.
- We configure the policies, portals, and monitoring features provided by the SAP Integration Suite API Management module in the way that best fits your company. This way, we help you secure not only integration but also your digital business model for the future.
If you haven’t read it yet, you can check out our article
"What is SAP PI/PO?"
where we explain the basics of integration, or learn more about cloud-based integration in our article
"What is SAP Integration Suite?"
and take your integration journey to the next level with API Management.
