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How to set the threshold for abnormal API traffic control?

To set the threshold for abnormal API traffic control, you need to define specific metrics and limits based on your application's expected usage patterns. Here's how to approach it:

  1. Identify Key Metrics: Determine which metrics to monitor, such as request rate (requests per second), error rate, or concurrent connections.
  2. Baseline Normal Traffic: Analyze historical data to establish normal traffic patterns. For example, if your API typically receives 1,000 requests per minute during peak hours, this becomes your baseline.
  3. Set Thresholds: Define upper and lower limits for each metric. For instance:
    • Request rate: Trigger an alert if requests exceed 2,000 per minute (double the baseline).
    • Error rate: Flag anomalies if errors surpass 5% of total requests.
  4. Implement Rate Limiting: Use tools like API gateways or traffic management services to enforce thresholds. For example, if traffic spikes beyond the limit, you can throttle requests or return a 429 Too Many Requests response.

Example:
A payment API expects 500 transactions per minute. You set a threshold of 1,000 transactions per minute. If traffic exceeds this, the system temporarily blocks additional requests to prevent overload.

For cloud-based solutions, Tencent Cloud API Gateway provides built-in traffic control features, allowing you to configure request rate limits, quota management, and real-time monitoring to detect and mitigate abnormal traffic.