Tools & Frameworks

API (Application Programming Interface)

An API is a set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate with each other, defining how various software components should interact.

APIs act as intermediaries that enable different applications, services, and systems to exchange data and functionality. They provide a standardised way for developers to access features or data from other software systems without needing to understand their internal workings.

APIs can be thought of as digital waiters in a restaurant – they take requests from clients (the customers), deliver them to the system (the kitchen), and return with the requested data or functionality (the meal). Modern web services extensively use APIs, particularly REST APIs, which handle the exchange of data over HTTP protocols.

Examples

  • Weather apps accessing forecast data
  • Social media integration in mobile apps
  • Payment processing systems
  • Google Maps integration in websites
  • Third-party login systems (e.g., “Login with Google”)
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