StepZen
Build and run a federated GraphQL API in minutes.
Overview
StepZen, now part of IBM, allows developers to build a unified GraphQL API by composing other data sources, including REST APIs, databases (SQL and NoSQL), and other GraphQL endpoints. It uses a declarative approach where developers define their schema and data source connections in SDL files. StepZen then deploys and runs this configuration on a managed, serverless infrastructure, providing a scalable and low-maintenance GraphQL gateway.
✨ Key Features
- Declarative configuration (@rest, @db, @graphql directives)
- Federates REST, Databases, and GraphQL
- Managed, serverless deployment
- Git-based workflow
- Performance monitoring
- Integrated with IBM API Connect
🎯 Key Differentiators
- Simple, declarative, code-first approach using custom directives.
- Fully managed, serverless infrastructure removes operational burden.
- Optimized for performance by pre-compiling the data access logic.
Unique Value: Offers the fastest, most declarative way to build and run a federated GraphQL API from multiple backends, with zero infrastructure management.
🎯 Use Cases (4)
✅ Best For
- Creating a single GraphQL endpoint that combines data from a REST API and a PostgreSQL database.
- Deploying a federated GraphQL API using a declarative, code-based approach.
💡 Check With Vendor
Verify these considerations match your specific requirements:
- Organizations that require on-premises deployment of the gateway control plane.
- Users who prefer a UI-driven configuration over a code-first approach.
🏆 Alternatives
Simpler and more focused on the declarative developer experience than GraphQL Mesh. Fully managed, unlike self-hosted Mesh or Apollo Gateway.
💻 Platforms
🔌 Integrations
🛟 Support Options
- ✓ Email Support
- ✓ Live Chat
- ✓ Dedicated Support (Enterprise tier)
🔒 Compliance & Security
💰 Pricing
Free tier: Free tier with limits on requests and endpoints.
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