API
abbreviation (noun)
An API is a defined way for software to exchange data or call functions in other software without needing to know how that software works internally.
The mobile app retrieves the latest schedule from the business system through an API.
API stands for Application Programming Interface. An API provides an agreed interface to an application: one program sends a request in a defined format and the other returns a predictable response. Developers therefore do not need to know how the system behind that interface is built internally.
How does an API work?
An API describes the available operations, the data a request must contain and the format of the response. For example, an online shop can use an API to ask an inventory system whether a product is available. The inventory system checks the request and returns the stock status.
Many web APIs use addresses called Glossary · In briefendpointAn endpoint is an address at which an API makes a particular resource or action available.Read more. Each endpoint defines permitted requests, data formats, access controls and error messages. An API key or another form of Glossary · In briefauthenticationAuthentication is the process by which a system verifies the claimed identity of a user, device or application.Read more can determine which application gets access. An API does not automatically provide unrestricted access to all the data in a system.
APIs and integrations
An API is the technical interface a system makes available. An integration is a specific connection that uses it. If an accounting package offers an API, a developer might build an integration that sends approved working hours as invoice lines.
The same API can be used by several websites, mobile apps or other systems. Conversely, one integration can combine several APIs. Not every integration uses an API: data can also be transferred through files, message queues or other exchange methods.