What is an API?
API stands for Application programming interface And is a programming interface. Enable interfaces modularization of software and the Integration of third-party programs at the source code level. Modularization means turning the software into several Program components to disassemble. Since they are separate from the rest of the application, it requires an interface. In fact, this enables the Communication of these components.
The interface allows a user to access various components. These include databases, interfaces, hardware or individual functions of an application. The interface consists of a syntax that is also documented for business customers, for example. In particular SaaS products and cloud software companies utilize APIsbecause it makes it easier for them to integrate applications.
How does an API work?
Interfaces working with protocols or rules, in order Request data and share it between applications. From a development perspective, they have the advantage of being able to integrate services in order to forego their new development. This could be payment systems from third-party providers, for example. Only the necessary information is output, while internal system details remain hidden. In most cases, the requests only request small data packets.
For example, when in Payment process When the payment buttons are clicked, a call is sent to retrieve information. This request is forwarded to the web server. If the request is valid, the API calls the web server or the program, i.e. payment system. The server then sends a response to the API with the requested data.
What are typical examples?
Classic fields of application In addition to payment services, form the integration of Parcel services to shipment tracking or Navigation apps. Also the buttons for social media are embedded and updated on websites via the respective company's APIs. Navigation apps use interfaces to users interactive maps with additional functions, such as directions or places of interest.
What types of API are there?
APIs can function-oriented be file-oriented, object-oriented or protocol-oriented. They can be open, only available for internal use, or accessible to partners. They are also categorized according to how they are used: There are database APIs, Operating system APIs, Remote APIs and Web APIs.
There are also various types of APIs: SOAP (simple object access protocol), GraphQL, WebSocket and RPC (remote procedure call) as well as REST API.
REST API stands for Representational State Transfer and ensures the Data exchange from distributed systems. This involves tasks or data on different servers distributes or requests from them, so-called HTTP requests.
