Unlocking the Power of Multiple GraphQL Endpoints
A Single Endpoint Isn’t Always Enough
GraphQL is renowned for its efficiency in data retrieval, thanks to its single endpoint architecture. However, there are situations where having multiple endpoints makes more sense. By exposing customized schemas through separate endpoints, we can cater to different users or applications with distinct behaviors.
The Difference Between Multiple Endpoints and REST
Unlike REST, which provides access to predefined resources, multiple GraphQL endpoints still offer access to all data within their respective schemas. This enables us to fetch exactly what we need, while maintaining the flexibility to switch between endpoints.
Schema Stitching vs. Multiple Endpoints
Schema stitching and federation combine multiple sources of data into a unified graph. In contrast, multiple endpoints allow us to deal with independent schemas, each accessible on its own. This approach is particularly useful when expanding into new business domains or creating separate internal-only endpoints.
Use Cases for Multiple GraphQL Endpoints
Exposing Admin and Public Endpoints Separately
By creating separate schemas for admin and public access, we can ensure sensitive information is protected from bugs and carelessness. This strategy is especially crucial when dealing with confidential data.
Restricting Access to Private Information
Exposing customized schemas for different clients can be safer than granting access to a unified schema. We can easily validate access to these endpoints by IP address, providing an additional layer of security.
Providing Different Behavior to Different Applications
Multiple endpoints enable us to offer distinct behaviors to different applications, such as desktop and mobile browsers. This approach allows us to tailor our responses to specific use cases.
Generating a Site in Different Languages
By creating separate schemas for different languages, we can translate data while it’s in transit between the data source and application. This approach is particularly useful when generating static sites with Gatsby.
Testing an Upgraded Schema Before Release
Exposing an upgraded schema via a separate endpoint allows us to test it before releasing it to production. We can also create a bleeding-edge endpoint for deploying the schema from DEV.
Supporting the Backend-for-Frontends (BfF) Approach
Implementing multiple endpoints in a single GraphQL server enables us to support the BfF approach, where each client owns its own API. This allows for the creation of optimized versions based on individual client requirements.
Implementing Multiple GraphQL Endpoints
To expose multiple endpoints, we can define several GraphQL schemas and tell the server which one to use based on the requested endpoint. We can achieve this using GraphQL Helix, which decouples the handling of HTTP requests from the GraphQL server.
Conclusion
While a single endpoint is sufficient in most cases, exposing multiple endpoints can be more appropriate when dealing with customized schemas for different clients or applications. By understanding the use cases and implementation strategies, we can unlock the full potential of GraphQL and create more efficient, flexible, and secure data retrieval systems.