Laravel 11 Middleware: A Complete Guide

What is Middleware in Laravel 11?Middleware in Laravel 11 is a mechanism that filters HTTP requests before they reach the controller. It allows developers to apply various security checks, modify request data, and control access to specific routes.
Common Use Cases of Middleware:Authentication & Authorization – Restrict access to certain pages.
Logging & Monitoring – Track user activity.
CORS Handling – Manage cross-origin requests.
Request Modifications – Manipulate incoming requests.
Rate Limiting – Prevent excessive requests to an API.
How to Create Middleware in Laravel 11Creating middleware in Laravel 11 is simple. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Generate MiddlewareRun the following Artisan command:

php artisan make:middleware CheckUserRole

This command creates a new middleware file inside the app/Http/Middleware directory.
Step 2: Define Middleware LogicOpen the newly created middleware file app/Http/Middleware/CheckUserRole.php and modify the handle method:

namespace App\Http\Middleware;

use Closure;
use Illuminate\Http\Request;

class CheckUserRole
{
    public function handle(Request $request, Closure $next)
    {
        if (!$request->user() || $request->user()->role !== 'admin') {
            return response()->json(['message' => 'Unauthorized'], 403);
        }
        return $next($request);
    }
}

This middleware checks if the authenticated user has an admin role before allowing access.
Step 3: Register MiddlewareTo register the middleware, open app/Http/Kernel.php and add it to the $routeMiddleware array:

protected $routeMiddleware = [
    'checkUserRole' => \App\Http\Middleware\CheckUserRole::class,
];

Step 4: Apply Middleware to RoutesApply the middleware to specific routes in routes/web.php or routes/api.php:

Route::get('/admin', function () {
    return view('admin.dashboard');
})->middleware('checkUserRole');

Global vs. Route Middleware in Laravel 11Laravel allows defining middleware at different levels:
Global Middleware: Applied to all requests (defined in $middleware inside Http/Kernel.php).
Route Middleware: Applied to specific routes ($routeMiddleware in Kernel.php).
Group Middleware: Applied to multiple routes using middleware groups like web and api.
ConclusionMiddleware in Laravel 11 provides an essential layer of security and functionality for web applications. By effectively utilizing middleware, developers can create more robust, secure, and scalable applications. Start implementing middleware in Laravel 11 today to enhance your application's security and performance!