Role of APIs in Modern Web Development

API (Application Programming Interfaces) has brought a revolution in the world of web development. If you haven’t heard of API earlier, you can understand it as a pool connecting various systems to make data exchange easier.
All the applications that we are using daily are based on API. APIs are helpful in various applications, be it a social media platform like Instagram or Facebook or a payment exchange app like Paytm or Phonepe. All apps requiring real-time data updates need an API to be integrated.
API makes the application develop faster, more scalable, and customisable and that’s why knowing everything about it is important for a developer. Read this article to learn what an API is, why an API is essential in web development, and how APIs have become a part of the latest changes in the technology world.

What Is API(Application Programming Interfaces)?

The full form for API is “Application Programming Interface”. API plays an essential role in software development. API is a medium that allows software or systems to exchange conversations.
For example, when you use a train tracking app like “Where Is My Train” to check the live status of a train, the API requests the railway server and fetches the live data. After getting the real-time data, the live status of the train appears on your screen.
APIs provide a standard platform for data exchange. Developers can use them to integrate different services into their applications. Whether it is a payment gateway, Google Maps, or social media integration, APIs help bring them all on one platform.
But things have changed over time, and nowadays, API isn’t just limited to data exchange. APIs are helping websites and app developers to make the interface more user-friendly and fast. Without the use of API, the development of websites is very hard nowadays, and that’s why everyone has started adopting it.

Why Are APIs Important In Web Development?

It is difficult to imagine modern web development without APIs. There are several reasons for this:
  • Easy Integration: With the help of APIs, you can easily add features like payment gateways, social media, and cloud services to your website or app.
  • Scalability: You can add plug-ins and more to your website to enhance and increase the usability of your website.
  • Better User Experience: APIs update data in real-time, improving the website experience.
  • Save Time and Money: Developers uses a lot of time and money by using the resources which has been already created. instead of creating new resources.

Types Of API

There are many different APIs used in web development for different purposes:

1. REST APIs: This is the most used API which works on HTTP protocol. This API is used to send and receive the data in easiest way possible.

2. SOAP APIs: It is a protocol-based API, known for more secure and standardized data communication.

3. GraphQL APIs: The specialty of this API is that it provides only the data that is required.

4. WebSocket APIs: This type of API is best for real-time communication, and is used in those websites and applications which are required to update within seconds.

How Are APIs Changing Modern Web Development?

APIs are changing modern web development in various ways. Have a look at few ways:

1. Support Microservice Architecture

APIs allow different services to operate individually and independently at same time. By allowing this the development gets flexible and faster.

2. Making Cross-platform Development Easier

With the help of API, you can use a single application or website on mobile and desktops simultaneously.

3. Promoting Third Party Integration

You can also add tools like Google Maps, Stripe, and Social Login easily with the help of API.

4. Supports Serverless Architecture

In serverless computing, APIs form the means of communication between cloud services and applications.

5. Making Data Access Easier

With the help of APIs, you can easily access external data and improve your application.

Essential Tips For Using APIs

If you are new age developer who has recently started, then following these tips for using API will help you a long way:
  • Choose The Right API: Choose an API that is secure and scalable based on your needs.
  • Optimise Performance: Keep API calls to a minimum so your website works faster.
  • Don’t Ignore Security: Use tools like OAuth and API Keys to protect data.
  • Create Documentation: Provide complete information to use the API correctly.
  • Monitor the API: Monitor the API regularly to ensure it always works correctly.

Conclusion

Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) have proven instrumental in current web development. With API, you can perform several tasks with ease such as coupling two or more software. It also helps in raising the utility of any application or site. Therefore if you are a developer we suggest you do yourself a favor and learn on how to use these APIs.