Optimize API Deployment with Visual LANSA

APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are necessary for inter-application and inter-system communication. Historically, deploying APIs using Visual LANSA has been limited to Windows environments, which caused dependency issues that hinder scalability and increase maintenance efforts. The latest Visual LANSA update, EPC150070, changes all of that by publishing REST APIs on IBM i without requiring the IIS Plugin. It simplifies workflows and expands cross-platform capabilities. IBM i users can create, publish, and execute REST APIs efficiently—free from Windows-based limitations.

Watch the lightning session on unlocking legacy IBM i functionality with APIs.

Publish and Execute REST APIs with Visual LANSA EPC150070

Rather than relying on an IIS Plugin to deploy APIs on IBM i , developers can now take advantage of native integration and dynamic routing on IBM i without extra overhead. This change in this low-code platform gives developers the freedom to simplify their workflows to eliminate the need to manage cumbersome plugins and dependencies. Developers can dedicate more time to innovation – experimenting with new ideas and delivering creative solutions faster.

Extended URL Pattern Matching

With the update, developers gain access to extended URL pattern-matching capabilities, which enhance the precision and flexibility of API routing. This means smoother handling of complex URL structures, reduced errors, and a more streamlined development experience. This update enables developers to focus on delivering high-performance applications by improving request accuracy and simplifying routing configurations. Here are the following advantages for developers:

Improved Routing Capabilities

The EPC150070 offers advanced routing mechanisms to allow proper mapping of incoming requests and services or resources. This way, complex URL structures are handled efficiently to reduce the chances of making a mistake and upgrading the end-user experience.

Better Handling of Complicated URL Structures

Managing complex URL patterns is challenging, especially for large applications. The extended pattern-matching capability streamlines request processing by reducing the need for custom routing logic and simplifying how requests are handled within the codebase. It organizes routing configurations more efficiently to allow developers to manage complex URL structures with less effort for a cleaner, more maintainable code and faster request handling.

Request Filtering and Application Server Communication

Effective request filtering makes sure that only valid and authorized requests reach the application server to improve security as well as performance. Also, this leverages the built-in filtering mechanisms of the IBM HTTP Server and Linux Apache module so developers can specify exact rules for incoming requests. It facilitates efficient communication between the web server and the application server to make sure that requests are processed accurately and promptly.

By leveraging these capabilities, developers can create strong APIs that maintain high performance and security standards across various platforms.

Optimized Request Processing

Efficient request handling is crucial to application performance, and this EPC160070 optimizes how requests are handled and routed.

Improved Application Performance

Overhead generated from processing requests is decreased, allowing applications to handle user input faster. With this update, high-traffic applications or those relying on real-time data can expect improved support for higher loads.

Publishing REST APIs on the IBM i Accessed via Apache

One of the major enhancements in Visual LANSA EPC150070 is the move to a plugin-free approach for publishing REST APIs on IBM i. By leveraging native integration with IBM HTTP Server and Linux Apache modules, you can simplify your deployment architecture and eliminate the overhead of external plugins. Here’s how to begin:

Ensure that your IBM i (and any other servers you plan to integrate) meet all required hardware and software specifications. Before performing any upgrades or installations, create backups of your existing configurations so you can quickly restore them if necessary. Follow the instructions in the EPC150070 release notes to update your Visual LANSA environment. Verify successful upgrade by checking your server logs after upgrading to confirm there are no unexpected errors. EPC150070 may be downloaded from the Visual LANSA Support Portal.

Configuration Tips for Optimal Performance

• Enable extended URL pattern matching: Use extended URL pattern matching to route incoming requests exactly. This added setup allows a server to handle complications in the structures of URLs being processed.
• Optimize request processing settings: Adjust the settings to streamline request handling, reduce latency, and improve overall application responsiveness.
• Monitor server performance: Regularly monitor server performance metrics to identify and address potential bottlenecks. Utilize monitoring tools compatible with IBM HTTP Server and Linux Apache module for comprehensive insights.

Best Practices for Deployment and Maintenance

• Regularly apply security and performance patches for IBM HTTP Server or Linux Apache modules to help maintain a secure environment.
• Schedule regular backups of server configurations and data against potential failures.
• Create a separate testing environment to test new configurations or updates before moving them to the production server.
• Maintain detailed documentation of your server configurations and any changes made. This will help you debug and be consistent in every deployment.

Watch the webinar below to learn more about the EPC150070’s benefits.

Take the Next Step with Visual LANSA

Visual LANSA EPC150070 offers a straightforward method of deploying APIs across IBM i (no more plugins required) and other platforms. By integrating with IBM HTTP Server and Linux Apache modules, developers can tap into advanced routing capabilities and optimized request processing. This streamlined architecture aligns with modern trends in APIs, giving you a cross-platform solution that’s agile, easier to maintain, and highly performant.

View a full summary of EPC150070 and its capabilities.

Learn more about how Visual LANSA accelerates development cycles, reduces costs, and integrates with your existing systems. Our experts are ready to help you leverage the full potential of your applications. Contact your Regional Account Manager today to discuss tailored solutions and take full advantage of professional low-code.