Use Multiple API Keys To Get Around Rate Limiting In APIs for NodeJS

Question

My client has two API keys for Alpha Vantage with a limit of 5 requests per minute.

If the limit on one is reached, then I want to use the other.

I am using MongoDB as a database.

I was thinking that we can store a variable in MongoDB, but I'm worried about the performance effects in that case.

What is the best (and simplest) way to do this?

The limit is 5 requests/minute. Requesting it to check if the limit is exceed might increase the total time the request takes to execute.

You want to use multiple API Keys? Ok. Whats the problem with it? Start coding. If key A returns "bad key", try key B. If that returns "bad key", you reached the rate limits of both API Keys. I dont see a programming question here. Whats your problem with doing it so? Your **programming** question. — Marc, Mar 15 '23 at 19:06
The limit is 5 requests/minute. Requesting it to check if the limit is exceed might increase the total time the request takes to execute. This is why I asked if storing a variable in MongoDB to keep track of this is a good idea or not. — Akash, Mar 16 '23 at 10:05
Dont check if the limit is reached. Just do your request when needed, and check the return status. When you made a request as needed, and you reached the limit, just use the other key — Marc, Mar 16 '23 at 10:18
I see, thanks! If you post that as an answer, I'll be happy to mark it right :) — Akash, Mar 16 '23 at 10:38

score 1 · Accepted Answer · answered Mar 16 '23 at 10:43

You can make your requests as needed, and check the return code from the service.

If the service says/indicate "rate limit reached", try the second API key. If the limit of the second one is reached, try the first one again.

And so on.

PS:
There is no need "to check the key" if the limit is reached. Just make your API call as needed and check the return status.

Just try your keys in a round-robin routine when one reach its limit

1 Answers1