Load balancer

A **load balancer** is a critical component in modern IT infrastructure that distributes incoming network or application traffic across multiple servers. Its primary role is to ensure high availability and reliability by preventing any single server from becoming overwhelmed with too much traffic. By balancing the load, it helps improve the performance and responsiveness of applications. Load balancers can operate at various levels, including hardware, software, and virtual environments, each offering different benefits and capabilities. They play a crucial role in enhancing scalability and managing traffic efficiently, making them essential for maintaining a smooth and uninterrupted user experience.