~/Faster API Routing in Golang

Sep 22, 2018

Fast API routing in Golang relies on choosing efficient routers and optimizing handler logic. Standard library net/http is reliable but can be slow for large route trees. Consider using high-performance routers like httprouter or chi which use optimized algorithms for matching routes.

For example, using httprouter:

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package main

import (
    "fmt"
    "net/http"
    "github.com/julienschmidt/httprouter"
)

func Index(w http.ResponseWriter, r *http.Request, _ httprouter.Params) {
    fmt.Fprint(w, "Welcome!\n")
}

func main() {
    router := httprouter.New()
    router.GET("/", Index)
    http.ListenAndServe(":8080", router)
}

Optimization tips:

• Register static routes first. httprouter prioritizes static matches.
• Minimize middleware in critical paths. Each layer adds latency.
• Avoid reflection or interface{} use in handlers.

Compare benchmarks:

• httprouter benchmarks
• chi benchmarks

For ultimate speed, ensure your router is compatible with http.Handler for minimal wrapping overhead and fast dispatch.

Choose the right router based on benchmark results and route complexity for your use case.