What is an API?
An application programming interface, or API, is a piece of code that allows two applications to share information.
An example in practice:
Even though it might seem like a concept that only concerns developers, it's actually quite easy to find examples of APIs in everyday life.
A clear example is booking platforms.
Booking platforms:
Platforms like Booking or Expedia manage to present offers to customers for both flights and accommodations simultaneously.
But how do they do it?
APIs allow for the exchange of information quickly and seamlessly, even though the aggregator's site and the hotel and airline systems are built with different technologies and by different companies.
Who provides the APIs?
Referring back to this scenario, the API providers would be the hotel and airline owners, while the aggregator (the booking platform) would be the consumer of the APIs.
The utility:
The use of APIs proves mutually beneficial: for the airline owner, it simplifies user access to flight information; for the aggregator, it provides real-time data swiftly, an otherwise challenging feat.
The main types of APIs:
• Public: available to anyone. This type allows third parties to develop apps that interact with the API and can be a source of innovation.
• Partner: shared among specific business partners.
This type can provide additional income streams without compromising quality.
• Private: intended for internal use only.
This type offers companies optimal control over the APIs.
Conclusion
APIs serve as the gateway to accessing resources while preserving security and control. You have the authority to determine access permissions.
Effectively managing APIs is crucial for security, and an API gateway plays a pivotal role in this regard.
For connecting to APIs and developing applications that leverage their exposed data or functions, a distributed integration platform capable of linking each element seamlessly is indispensable.
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