API (Application Programming Interface)
What is an API
An API, or application programming interface, is a collection of guidelines and procedures that permit interaction and communication between various software programs. It outlines the procedures and file types that programs may use to carry out operations, request and exchange data, and access features offered by other software modules or services.
How does API work
The phrases client and server are typically used to describe API design. Applications that send requests are referred to as clients, while those that respond are referred to as serves. RMI and API function similarly.
Remote Method Invocation referred to as RMI. It is a Java that makes it possible for Java objects spread across various Java Virtual Machines (JVMs) to communicate with one another. Java objects in one JVM can call methods on objects in another JVM using Remote Method Invocation (RMI), much like local objects would.
Different types of API
- REST API
- SOAP API
REST API:
Representational State Transfer is referred to as REST. Clients can access server data using a set of functions defined by REST, such as GET, PUT, DELETE, and so on. HTTP is used by clients and servers to exchange data.
Statelessness is what distinguishes REST APIs the most. Statelessness is the absence of client data storage on servers between requests. Requests from clients to the server function similarly to URLs entered into a browser to access websites. The server’s response consists of raw data without the usual web page graphical display.
API Integrations:
Software elements known as API integrations allow clients and servers to automatically update data. The automatic syncing of data to the cloud from your phone’s picture gallery or the automatic syncing of the date and time on your laptop, when you go to a different time zone, are two instances of API integrations. They can also effectively used by businesses to automate a variety of system tasks.
API-led connectivity
Application Programming Interfaces are the main building blocks for connecting and coordinating interactions across various systems, apps, and services. API-led connectivity is a comprehensive integration technique that makes use of these building pieces. An emphasis on modularity, reusability, and flexibility characterizes API-led connectivity in contrast to traditional point-to-point interfaces, which are stiff, intricate, and closely connected.
Key Principles of API-Led Connectivity
API-led connectivity guided by three distinct layers, each serving a specific purpose in the integration process:
System/API Layer:
This layer exposes the functionality and data of installed systems, apps, and data sources via well-defined APIs. These APIs abstract away complexity and provide standardized communication by acting as entry points for engaging with and accessing the underlying systems.
Process/API Layer:
The middleware that orchestrates and coordinates interactions between many systems and services is the process layer. It outlines reusable workflows and business logic that encapsulated in integration procedures, or APIs. These APIs simplify modular development and deployment, encourage uniformity, and expedite the integration process.
Experience/API Layer:
The experience layer, located at the top, is responsible for providing smooth and interesting user experiences across a range of platforms and channels. By utilizing the powers made available by the underlying systems and procedures, this layer provides developers with APIs that let them design user-centered apps, interfaces, and experiences.
Real-World Examples
Numerous organizations across industries have embraced API-led connectivity to drive digital transformation and achieve business objectives:
Retail:
Retailers leverage APIs to integrate e-commerce platforms with inventory management systems. Payment gateways, and third-party marketplaces, enabling seamless Omni channel experiences for customers.
Finance:
Financial institutions use APIs to securely expose banking services and data, enabling developers to build innovative FinTech applications, such as mobile banking apps, budgeting tools, and payment solutions.
Healthcare:
Healthcare providers utilize APIs to integrate electronic health records (EHR) systems with patient portals, medical devices, and telehealth platforms, facilitating collaborative care delivery and patient engagement.
See this also
Raml for API: Raml
APIKIT router for REST: APIKIT Router
