What is API (Application Programming Interface)?

APIs or “Application Programming Interfaces” are bridges that allow software to interact with each other in an orderly, secure and efficient way.

This technology connects apps, websites, and digital services to simplify everything from simple functions like logging in to social media to complex integrations between enterprise systems.

In this article, we will examine how APIs work, their types and examples, usage advantages and security measures.

What is API and what is it for?

API (Application Programming Interface) is a interface Describing communication methods between different applications. This technology allows applications, operating systems, and even websites to connect and share data or functionality.

In everyday use, APIs allow, for example, a website to display Google maps without having to build its own geolocation solution by integrating the map service as part of its system.

How do APIs work?

APIs function as “contracts” that specify the rules of communication between systems, allowing different software to share data and functionality.

When an application uses an API, Call or to request To access a specific function. In response, the API provides the requested data or functionality without the application needing to know the internal details of the system it is interacting with.

What are the types of APIs?

There are several types of APIs, each with a specific purpose:

1. Operating System APIs: Allow applications to interact with operating system functions (e.g. audio APIs);
2. Web APIs (REST and SOAP APIs): Used for communication between servers; allows access to an external database, for example from a website;
3. Library APIs: Link applications to specific functions of a software library;
4. Framework APIs: They offer frameworks and services for application development, such as using .NET or Node.js.

What is Web API?

Web APIs are designed to be accessible over the internet. They allow online services and data to be integrated with other applications or websites.

For example, Google Maps offers a Web API that allows you to view maps on third-party websites.

What is REST API?

TO RELAX (Representational State Transfer) is an architectural style for building APIs that work with HTTP protocols.

RESTful APIs are widely used in web integrations because they are lightweight and ideal for fast interactions such as accessing online databases. Learn more about RESTful APIs in the TecMundo article.

API Examples

Common API examples include:

• Google Maps API: Allows you to integrate maps into websites;
• Facebook API: Makes it easy to log in and share directly to social networks from other websites;
• Twitter API: Allows applications to send or read tweets. These examples show how APIs can make the user experience more seamless and fluid.

Advantages of using API

Using APIs offers several benefits, such as:

• Cost Reduction: APIs allow companies to integrate external functions, eliminating the need to build resources from scratch;
• User Experience Improvement: Fast and integrated access to data and services;
• Scalability: APIs make it easier to grow services and allow you to add new functionality without making changes to the core code.

What are API integrations?

API integrations automatic links It allows two systems to work together continuously. For example, a company can use APIs to synchronize data between a CRM system and an e-commerce platform, ensuring information is always up to date in both.

Security when using API

Unfortunately, APIs are vulnerable to cyber attacks. Some security apps include:

• Authentication and Authorization: Authenticate and limit access to those using the API;
• cryptography: Protect transferred data;
• Speed ​​Limitation: Limit access frequency to prevent abuse.

How to create an API?

Creating an API involves steps as follows:

1. Scope Planning: Define what functions and data can be accessed;
2. Choosing API Type: REST, SOAP etc. Decide between;
3. APPLICATION: Write API code and define access rules;
4. Documentation: Clearly state API usage and parameters;
5. Testing and Security: Make sure the API works as expected and is secure.

These are the basic points to understand the concept and implementation of APIs; It is essential for companies seeking innovation, integration and better operational performance.

Check out TecMundo to learn more about APIs and programming. Until next time!