API (Application Programming Interface) is a set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate and exchange data with each other. APIs help developers connect systems, services, applications, and databases efficiently.
In software and web development, APIs are commonly used to send requests, retrieve data, automate processes, and integrate third-party services into applications.
For example:
- A weather application uses an API to fetch live weather data from a server.
- Payment gateways like Stripe or PayPal use APIs to process online transactions.
- Social media platforms use APIs to allow users to log in with Google or Facebook accounts.
- Food delivery apps use APIs to connect restaurants, customers, payment systems, and delivery tracking.
Common technologies and concepts related to APIs include:
- REST API
- JSON
- HTTP Requests
- Node.js
- React JS
- Postman
- Authentication
- Web Services
