What is the role of the Gateway process in Tableau Server?

The Gateway process plays a critical role in Tableau Server by handling all incoming requests from browsers and clients. When users interact with Tableau Server, such as when they access visualizations or publish workbooks, those requests are routed through the Gateway. This component acts as the entry point for all user interactions and ensures that the requests are properly managed and directed to the appropriate services within Tableau Server for processing.

By performing this function, the Gateway maintains the flow of information between users and the various underlying services, such as the VizQL server and other data management services. This orchestration is key to providing a responsive and reliable user experience.

Other options, while related to Tableau functionalities, do not capture the specific role of the Gateway process. For instance, managing connections to data sources pertains more to the underlying data engine or data connectivity architecture rather than to the Gateway's responsibilities. Similarly, storage of extracts relates to the Data Engine, and communication with the Data Source Properties service focuses on managing metadata and configuration rather than handling user requests directly. Hence, understanding the Gateway's role in managing user requests is essential for grasping how Tableau Server operates as a cohesive platform.