The development of web and computer applications, as well as related technologies, is constantly progressing. The API, for example, is proof of this. It is a solution that has revolutionised the world of application software over the past decade or so. Let's take a slightly closer look at it and explain how this technology works.
What is the API and how does it work?
Application Programming Interface. It is a method of communication without which many of today's apps would make little sense. It is a bridge, so to speak, through which software retrieves information from external software or systems and sites, and then uses their resources for its own work. An API can quickly retrieve and then store data from multiple sources, which significantly increases the functionality of software created in this way.
A term that comes up frequently, and that many do not fully understand, is API integration. What is worth knowing about it? It is simply the implementation of the solution, i.e. introducing it into the system. This task is not the simplest, which is why integration is usually outsourced to developers.
Before the interface is implemented, various types of API tests are performed. Only then is it possible to implement and then use the Application Programming Interface. The workflow can be presented in a few simple steps:
- Preparing the request - the application creates a script specifying what data it wants to obtain.
- API calls - what is a call? It is nothing more than sending a request to an internal programme server or to the network.
- Receive feedback and organise it.
- Forwarding the information to the application that provoked the call.
Where the API is used - examples of use
It is worth noting that there are different types of APIs. The two most popular are:
- REST API - Representational State Transfer API is the de facto architecture for retrieving information using HTTP functions. It is the most commonly used API.
- SOAP - is an API that can use basically any communication protocol.
You already know what an API is. It now remains to present the main applications. Well, not everyone is aware that we all deal with this solution practically every day. By way of example, this standard is used in:
- transport connection search engines - searching for air, car or rail connections. It is the API that sends requests to connection operators, e.g. the Polish State Railways (PKP) or a selected bus transport organising company.
- Price comparison sites - in order for users to be able to compare prices of the same product across multiple shops, the service needs to obtain a range of important information. Without the API, this would be impossible.
- Investment applications - the hundreds and sometimes thousands of financial instrument prices available on an investment platform are downloaded from exchanges precisely using the API.
- Company software - functions using this solution include combining warehouse or accounting systems with an ERP programme.
- Navigation systems - the API works by linking the navigation in the fleet driver's car with the company's logistics management system, but also when, by taking a photo, our smartphone simultaneously marks our location.
How do I use the API and what benefits does it offer?
The extensive features of the API open up many possibilities for this standard. Application developers and software developers implement it by default. Its most important advantages, are:
- access from a single application to data from multiple sources,
- additional application functionalities,
- a higher level of data security, as the API call stage is the ideal time to implement encryption security, tokens, etc.
The answer to the question of what an API is seems obvious - it is a solution without which it is difficult to imagine today's digital world. Although there are different types of this interface and their functions are different, they share common goals - to increase the capabilities of the software and to really enhance the user experience.
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