What is an API in software

What is API in software

In software, “API” stands for “Application Programming Interface.” An API provides a set of rules and protocols that allow different software entities to communicate with each other. It specifies the methods and data formats that software components should use when requesting and exchanging information.

Here are some key points to understand about APIs:

Abstraction: An API abstracts the underlying implementation and only exposes objects or actions the developer needs. This allows the programmer to interact with a system or platform without knowing the internal details of that system.
Types of APIs:
- Web APIs: These allow interaction over the web, typically using HTTP/HTTPS. Examples include REST, SOAP, and GraphQL APIs.
- Library & Framework APIs: These provide pre-defined functions and routines to perform specific tasks, like the JavaAPI.
- Operating System APIs: These allow applications to make requests to the operating system, such as file operations or network requests.
- Database APIs: These allow communication between an application and a database, such as JDBC for Java.
Benefits:
- Interoperability: APIs enable different software systems, which may be built using different technologies, to work together.
- Efficiency: Developers can leverage pre-existing components and services instead of building everything from scratch.
- Standardization: By defining a standard interface, it’s easier to ensure that different software components interact correctly.
API Endpoints: In the context of web APIs, an endpoint refers to a specific URL where an API can be accessed and perform some action (e.g., retrieve, create, update, or delete data).
Security: Proper care needs to be taken when developing and consuming APIs to ensure that sensitive data is protected, and malicious attacks are prevented. Common practices include using tokens, OAuth, and rate limiting.
Versioning: As software evolves, its API might need changes that could break existing clients. To handle this, developers often use versioning to ensure backward compatibility.

In the modern world of software, APIs are instrumental in building scalable and flexible systems, enabling integrations across diverse platforms and technologies.
An Overview of APIs: The API Full Form Explained
What Is REST API? How To Build A RESTful Web Service
(Application Programming Interface)

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Pallavi

Business Analyst , Functional Consultant, Provide Training on Business Analysis and SDLC Methodologies.

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Author: Pallavi

Business Analyst , Functional Consultant, Provide Training on Business Analysis and SDLC Methodologies.🌐 Founder of BACareers.in| Freelance Business Analyst & Content Writer | Banking Domain Expert | Agile Practitioner | Career MentorI am the founder and content creator of BACareers.in, a specialized platform for aspiring and experienced Business Analysts. I share real-world insights, career tips, certification guidance, interview prep, tutorials, and case studies to help professionals grow in the BA career path.We have strong experience in Banking, Financial Services, and IT. We bring deep domain knowledge and hands-on expertise in core banking systems, payment integrations, loan management, regulatory compliance (KYC/AML), and digital banking transformations.💼 Business Analyst ExpertiseRequirement Elicitation, BRD/FRD, SRS, User Stories, RTMAgile & Waterfall (Scrum, Kanban) methodologiesBusiness Process Modeling (BPMN, UML, AS-IS/TO-BE)Stakeholder Communication & Gap AnalysisUAT Planning, Execution & SupportCore Banking Solutions (Finacle, Newgen BPM, Profile CBS, WebCSR)✍️ Content Writing & StrategyFounder of BACareers.in – knowledge hub for BAs & IT professionalsSEO-optimized blogs, training content, case studies & tutorialsContent on Business Analysis, Agile, Banking, IT & Digital TransformationEngaging, beginner-friendly writing for professionals & learners🌍 What we OfferFreelance Business Analysis services: BRD, FRD, UAT, process flows, consultingFreelance Content Writing: SEO blogs, IT/business content, case studies, LinkedIn postsA unique blend of analytical expertise + content strategy to turn business needs into solutions and ideas into words that work📌 Whether you’re an organization seeking BA expertise or a platform needing impactful content, let’s connect and collaborate.Business Analyst, Agile, BRD, FRD, Banking, Content Writer, SEO writing. View all posts by Pallavi

What is an API in software

What is API in software

Here are some key points to understand about APIs:

Types of APIs:

Benefits:

Author: Pallavi

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