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What is an API?
The API is an abbreviation for the Application Programming Interface, which means a set of protocols and routines that the computer system, computer library, or application provides to other applications to perform services to those applications.
The API is a set of routines that are interlaced (often the term interface is used) between our program and some group of system level or a set of rules for using these routines.
When Can We Use API?
The APIs can be used to communicate with the operating system (WinAPI), with databases (DBMS) or with communication protocols (Jabber / XMPP). In recent years, of course, have joined multiple social networks (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, Flickr, LinkedIn, etc.) and other online platforms (Google Maps, WordPress …), which has become social media marketing is something simpler, more traceable and, therefore, more profitable.
The important thing you need to know about the API is that it allows third parties to use information that they could not access. Thus, unnecessary paperwork is eliminated, since the technology obtains information that is in a closed and verified environment.
In addition, it is possible to make credit ratings in a matter of moments. This fact is explained because the API imports the information on the income and expenses of the clients from their bank accounts. Also, since it is an API, its operation is fast and simple.
Also, Read: Kali Linux 2019.1 Released With Metasploit 5.0 and Automation APIs
API Security
Another important thing about the API is security. In general, APIs only allow a limited scope of action, taking the provisions so that confidential information of the company cannot be manipulated for other purposes. So why waste time reinventing the wheel when an API allows you to use code that other developers have successfully tested? It is better to use these functions and concentrate on your application and its characteristics, the important thing is to make sure you deliver a quality product.
One of the keys to the functioning of the APIs is the ease of integration. This is a very important thing you need to know about API. These tools have to be simple to integrate with other software so that communications can be developed successfully. In the same way, your updates should not generate conflicts so that your work remains optimal.
To avoid the problems related to your updates, it is necessary that one of the following two points be fulfilled, or both: that the format of the data sent in response to the program in which it is integrated does not change, and that the documentation explains very clearly how to adapt the program so that it can continue using such data.
As technology progresses every day with an accelerated step, there are always novelties in this field, but the basics are always the same, and you need to know them in order to stay current. Start from the most important things!
