

After receiving a valid request, the API makes a call to the external program or web server.This request is processed from an application to the web server via the API’s Uniform Resource Identifier (URI) and includes a request verb, headers, and sometimes, a request body. A client application initiates an API call to retrieve information-also known as a request.APIs sit between an application and the web server, acting as an intermediary layer that processes data transfer between systems. How an API worksĪn API is a set of defined rules that explain how computers or applications communicate with one another. Developers don't need to know how an API is implemented they simply use the interface to communicate with other products and services. API use has surged over the past decade, to the degree that many of the most popular web applications today would not be possible without APIs. This allows services and products to communicate with each other and leverage each other’s data and functionality through a documented interface.

What is an application programming interface (API)?Īn application programming interface, or API, enables companies to open up their applications’ data and functionality to external third-party developers, business partners, and internal departments within their companies.
#App interface builder software
Application programming interfaces, or APIs, simplify software development and innovation by enabling applications to exchange data and functionality easily and securely.
