What is API?

API stands for Application Programming Interface. One of the main core in building programs, which is an application software that integrates the entire system to work.

In layman’s term, this is the process or responsible that works behind the application. let’s say for example, considering yourself walking inside the shoe store and seeing tons of shoe display, an assistant (API) walks in and gave you choices to choose from, and you made your pick. The assistant is going to take note of the design you wanted and relay the message to the personnel at the back storage (system), to go grab the design you are looking for. And the assistant will hand you the shoe of your desire.

For more realistic example. Consider yourself going to shop online using an application installed on your phone, you tap on a search engine and typed in a specific item you are looking for, integrated with filters to a keen and detailed search. The moment you press the magnifying icon, the application’s API is going to act as your assistant and look for the item, on a system programmed with the application you are using. And in a moment, the API is going to return and provide you the specific item you are looking for or any other similar searches that are filtered using the program.

That is how typically an API works. It acts as if your personal assistant in just a click away. With specific commands and requests, will provide you also with specific answer. You tell the application what you want, and the application will give you what you want. But this doesn’t mean that an API will expose you or a unit you are using. With the help of this interface you cannot be completely vulnerable or accessible from the outside world. What an API does as well is that it provides level of security. Your connection is not completely exposed to the server you are trying to reach out to, same goes with the server, it wouldn’t be exposed to your unit as well. Basically, the two server communicates using only small packets of data.

According to altexsoft.com blog, there are three types of APIs by release policies. First is the Private. This is the type of API that can only be used within a particular group. Internal. Like an office set up or company that would like to keep the data and resources at its private level. This is also the kind of system where in it is designed according to what a specific users need or depends on the kind of company being developed. Second, is the Partner Interface. This is a type of set up where in a two organizations gets to reach out and communicate, like business partners, companies to companies, groups to other groups and the like. This is an application that serves only a specific audience within a group. It’s a type where in the scope of community is a bit bigger than the usage of the Private one. Third is the Public or external. This is an API for public use. It is designed intended and accessible to the public anytime there is a need to be used. Like businesses and online transactions, customers to sellers, public communication and serving larger community. Most common are online flight booking, hotel check-ins online stores or online shopping.

An API plays a prime role in completing a working and functional program, application used in work, businesses and studies, any form of online transaction and mode of uses. API helps ease of access and successful activities in order to provide efficiency and more reliable outcomes.