Application Programming Interface (API) is a set of protocols for one application to talk and integrate with another. APIs provide developers with API keys to access an app’s existing code library and request information through what is commonly referred to as the API call. In return, the API returns the information in the form of a response.
Why are major companies putting out their valuable technology to the public? They aren’t giving away free access but specific protocols to connect other applications with theirs.
An example would be to connect Yelp with Google Maps. Yelp developers can leverage the Google Maps API to pinpoint business locations without creating their own mapping platform. APIs are primarily a tool to extend a given application’s functionality without having to develop every feature natively into it.
Why are APIs important?
- APIs save your company a ton of time from creating an application from scratch
- Businesses grow by relying on APIs
- APIs allow businesses to focus on their core competencies and not waste time in reinventing the wheel
Key technologies to develop APIs
Various technologies are available to facilitate the development of modular applications using APIs.
Node.js
REST architecture is a popular method to create APIs and Node.js is effective at quickly building REST APIs. Node.js is event-driven and operates on a single thread. It can be used to build front-end and server-side back-end applications that are both vertically and horizontally scalable.
WSO2
WSO2 is an open-source enterprise platform that offers integration of applications, APIs, and web services. It’s used to develop and implement RESTful APIs using message routing, chaining, mediation, and transformation. Additionally, It offers security features and tools to manage API performance and traffic.
AWS API Gateway
Manage your REST APIs with the powerful service of AWS API Gateway. You can build serverless applications to integrate with legacy applications while using it as an HTTP frontend. Its primary function is to connect web requests with code running on AWS lambda.
SHAFT
SHAFT is used to control APIs. It accepts data in multiple formats such as text, CSV, DB, etc. and combines them into a single and secure platform. It offers various data consolidation tools to capture data from multiple channels and generate MIS reports. Users have access to all the information from different systems through a highly optimised and intuitive UI.
APIGEE
Apigee is another powerful platform to build and manage APIs. By creating a proxy layer, Apigee provides an abstract layer for backend service APIs. The architecture provides rate limiting, analytics, security, quotas, and much more. We can create highly secured applications using policies that are APIGEE edge logic components.
At DEPT®, we use specialised API building and management tools to provide a seamless channel for undivided communication. We offer targeted API development services using all the technologies mentioned above. Whether you are a startup or an MNC, we can help you build scalable APIs.