API – Application Programming Interface

is a set of rules and protocols that allow different software applications to communicate and exchange data.

• Bridges services, data, and features to other applications.
• Creates new business opportunities by combining application features and data
• The most commonly used API technologies are:
• RESTful API: Based on REST principles. Uses HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE)
• GraphQL API: Uses a single endpoint to receive queries (HTTP, GraphQL).
• SOAP API: Uses the SOAP protocol. Uses XML, and is more reliable and secure than REST API.
• HTTP APIs are usually firewall friendly.
• NOTE: There are also library APIs, but they can only bind to the same technology.