Quick Answer
What is API?
An API (Application Programming Interface) is a defined contract that lets one software system talk to another.
Software Development
API
Also known as: Application Programming Interface
By Glintr Editorial TeamReviewed by Glintr Learn ReviewersUpdated 5 min readArea: Software Development
Definition
An API is a defined set of requests and responses that lets software systems communicate. Modern APIs are typically HTTP/JSON services used to connect front-end apps, backend systems and third-party providers.
Real-world examples
- A weather app calling a weather service's API.
- A checkout page calling Stripe's API to charge a card.
Related Concepts
- Web DevelopmentWeb Development is the practice of building websites and web applications — front-end interfaces, back-end services and the systems that connect them.
- Software DevelopmentSoftware Development is the practice of designing, building, testing and maintaining computer programs.
- Cloud ComputingCloud Computing is the on-demand delivery of compute, storage and services over the internet.