What is our primary use case?
We're using IBM DataPower Gateway for API management more than anything else. When I started in 2018, it was being used in conjunction with IBM Integration Bus. We were doing all the integrations on the IIB then when it comes to API management and all the other gateway operations, including security, that does not have anything to do with APIs, we're are using IBM DataPower.
What is most valuable?
The solution is straightforward and for large organizations, it functions well.
What needs improvement?
IBM DataPower Gateway is quite big for smaller organizations, looking at different types of clients who are virtually assisted in this, I would say it's not really a good product for smaller firms.
For how long have I used the solution?
I have been using IBM DataPower Gateway for three years.
What do I think about the stability of the solution?
IBM DataPower Gateway is quite stable if you know your way around.
We have four customers that are using this solution. We have millions of users using this solution.
What do I think about the scalability of the solution?
The scalability is a bit of an issue when you are a smaller firm because it can be quite expensive. If you are using an on-premise version, it's not as scalable because you need to buy the hardware devices. If you are using the virtual version, it's a little bit easier to scale.
How are customer service and support?
The technical support is always available and I think it's one of the options they are charging us for. They are well-informed agents. You better know your way around the solution, otherwise, you're going to rely on technical support for a whole lot of things.
Which solution did I use previously and why did I switch?
We have previously used Microsoft BizTalk Server. I've also worked with webMethods and a little bit of MuleSoft.
How was the initial setup?
The installation is not that easy.
I would rate the ease of installation a six out of ten.
What about the implementation team?
The number of staff that we need for the implementation of the solution depends on the scale of the environment, but you certainly need a couple of engineers for the support and management. IBM has a set amount of people that are required.
What's my experience with pricing, setup cost, and licensing?
IBM DataPower Gateway is quite expensive to get resources to work on this product. If the price could be cheaper, I think that will make it a little bit better and easily accessible to smaller clients. Then it could compete with other solutions that are available in the market. There's a whole lot of other solutions available that work well and are cheaper than IBM's products.
They have to reconsider the price of the solution. It's way too expensive. I don't think it's going to last that long in the market right now. There's a lot of other solutions that are out there that are doing the same job, or even better, with a cheaper price. Soon enough, IBM is going to run into trouble when comes to the price.
Which other solutions did I evaluate?
I have evaluated many other solutions.
What other advice do I have?
I would not recommend IBM DataPower Gateway because there are other solutions that are better.
I rate IBM DataPower Gateway a seven out of ten.
Which deployment model are you using for this solution?
On-premises
Disclosure: My company has a business relationship with this vendor other than being a customer: Partner
