The text explores the evolution of data integration from legacy systems to cloud-native architectures, highlighting the limitations of traditional systems characterized by data silos and the challenges they pose for integration and innovation. It discusses the shift towards decentralized architectures using federated APIs and microservices, which facilitate easier data sharing and cross-functional collaboration while improving scalability and innovation. However, this shift brings security concerns due to the increased attack surface, necessitating robust identity verification, access management, and data protection. API gateways are presented as effective solutions to these challenges, offering capabilities like authentication, access control, monitoring, and policy enforcement to ensure secure and efficient API management. The text emphasizes that API gateways support the transition to federated architectures by mitigating risks associated with decentralization, ultimately enhancing organizational agility and performance in the digital landscape.