Fixed Window Counter Explained

Rate limiting isn't just a 'yes' or 'no' check. It relies on smart algorithms to manage traffic. These algorithms decide how and when to allow or deny requests, ensuring fairness and stability.

We'll start with one of the simplest: the Fixed Window Counter.

The Fixed Window Counter is a straightforward rate limiting algorithm. It works by dividing time into fixed, non-overlapping windows.

• Each window has its own request counter.
• Once a request comes in, the counter for the current window increments.
• If the counter exceeds a predefined limit within that window, further requests are blocked.