Content delivery network and cloud services provider Akamai Technologies Inc. today announced a new native connector between Akamai API Security and the Akamai Connected Cloud that simplifies the discovery and protection of application programming interfaces.

The new Akamai native connector allows users to send a copy of their Akamai Connected Cloud traffic directly to API Security for analysis and to block attacks rapidly. The service is pitched as delivering a simple option for companies to discover and protect their APIs.

Often overlooked, APIs form the fabric that connects apps. Akamai argues that organizations need to be properly equipped to keep pace with digital transformation but, while doing so, ensure API security in a world where they’re becoming increasingly important.

With the new Akamai native connector, customers benefit through a faster return on investment with rapid, zero-touch deployment, the company says. Customers can also reduce the total cost of ownership with no implementation, maintenance overhead, networking or other long-term costs. The service also enables rapid attack response with direct blocking capability at the Akamai edge.

“APIs are critical for driving business innovation and growth. However, APIs can also be a significant risk if not properly secured,” said Rupesh Chokshi, senior vice president and general manager of Application Security at Akamai. “Our new native connector provides customers with an easy and effective way to gain visibility into their API traffic and protect against attacks without impacting performance or incurring additional costs.”

The connector works with Akamai’s API Security, which offers a vendor-neutral approach that allows it to integrate with more than 40 traffic sources, including cloud environments, API gateways and web application firewalls. Organizations get the flexibility to continue using their preferred technologies and tools while still benefiting from advanced API security capabilities.

Despite launching into general availability only today, the native connectors are already being used by more than 100 Akamai customers, analyzing more than 300,000 APIs that generate over half a trillion monthly requests.

Akamai was previously in the news in April when it launched the Akamai Guardicore Platform, designed to assist businesses in meeting their zero-trust goals. The Guardicore Platform helps security teams stop ransomware, meet compliance mandates and secure their hybrid workforce and hybrid cloud infrastructure.

Image: Akamai