#use of SAP Web Dispatcher in SAP Landscape
#SAP Web Dispatcher functionality in SAP systems
The SAP Web Dispatcher serves as a pivotal component within
the SAP landscape, primarily acting as a reverse proxy that optimizes the flow
of HTTP(S) requests. Its key functions include load balancing across
application servers, enhancing security features, and acting as an intermediary
between clients and the SAP system.
1. Acting as an Intermediary
The SAP Web Dispatcher functions as a bridge between the
internet and the SAP system, efficiently forwarding incoming HTTP(S) requests
to the appropriate application servers while returning backend responses to
clients127. This role is crucial for ensuring that requests are managed
effectively within the SAP architecture.
2. Load Balancing
One of the primary uses of the SAP Web Dispatcher is to
balance the load across multiple application servers in the SAP landscape. It
ensures an even distribution of incoming requests, thereby optimizing resource
utilization and preventing any single server from becoming overwhelmed48. The
dispatcher employs various algorithms, including dynamic load balancing, to
assess capacity and allocate requests accordingly8.
3. Enhancing Security
The SAP Web Dispatcher significantly enhances security by
enforcing the use of HTTPS for secure connections and allowing URL filtering to
restrict access to sensitive areas of the system8. It also manages SSL
configurations, facilitating secure communications and protecting critical data
from potential threats48.
4. Flexibility and Configuration
The dispatcher offers configurability, allowing it to be
tailored to specific SAP landscapes, including ABAP and Java systems8. It
can be deployed in front of multiple SAP systems, which is beneficial for
organizations that require centralized traffic management48.
5. Caching and Performance Improvement
Additionally, the SAP Web Dispatcher can act as a web
cache, which helps improve response times by storing frequently accessed
content and reducing the load on application servers4. This feature
enhances overall system performance and contributes to quicker response times
for end-users.
In
summary, the SAP Web Dispatcher plays a vital role in managing HTTP(S) traffic,
load balancing, and enhancing security within the SAP landscape, making it
essential for optimizing system performance and reliability.