An API (Application Programming Interface) is a structured set of rules and protocols that allows different software systems to communicate and share data seamlessly. It acts as a bridge between applications, defining how requests for information or actions should be made, what data should be sent, and how responses are returned. Instead of exposing the internal workings of a system, APIs provide a standardized way for developers to access its functionality, making integration, automation, and innovation faster and more secure.
APIs come in many forms, with the most common being RESTful APIs, SOAP, and GraphQL, each offering different models for structuring and exchanging data. They are foundational to modern software ecosystems, powering everything from social media integrations and payment gateways to cloud computing and IoT devices. For example, when you use a mobile app to check the weather, that app calls an API that retrieves live data from a remote server.
In enterprise environments, APIs enable modular architectures, microservices, and interoperability across diverse systems, supporting scalability, agility, and digital transformation. By leveraging APIs, organizations can extend their platforms, integrate third-party services, and accelerate the delivery of new digital experiences.