What is an API?
An API (Application Programming Interface) is a set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate and share data or functionality. APIs act as an intermediary between applications, allowing developers to integrate features without exposing internal code.
Types of APIs:
- REST APIs: Use HTTP requests for communication, common for web applications.
- SOAP APIs: Protocol-based APIs using XML, often for enterprise integrations.
- GraphQL APIs: Allow clients to request exactly the data they need in a single query.
API Use Cases:
- Connecting web applications to third-party services (e.g., payment gateways).
- Automating workflows between software systems.
- Building mobile applications that consume backend services.
Proper API security, including authentication, rate-limiting, and input validation, is critical to prevent misuse or data breaches.