Meaning of API (Application Programming Interface) that Developers Must Know

Kapanlagi.com - As a web developer, you must already know the meaning of API. API stands for Application Programming Interface. In Indonesian, this term is called Antarmuka Pemrograman Aplikasi.

In addition to the meaning of API, you also need to know the types and uses. Its implementation in various applications, such as Google Maps, online motorcycle taxis, and social media, has made many tasks easier. With API, software innovation can continue to be developed.

With that, applications can exchange data in order to function easily and securely. Well, if you are interested in further explanation, please read the information about the meaning of API, types, and benefits below.

1. Meaning of API

Illustration (Credit: Unsplash)

The meaning of API is Application Programming Interface or an interface that can connect one application to another application. APIs can act as intermediaries for different applications, both within the same platform or across platforms. With APIs, software innovation can continue to be developed.

As a web developer, you certainly need APIs to facilitate your work. APIs can be used to communicate with various different programming languages. You no longer need to provide all the data yourself because you can retrieve it through APIs.

In addition, this program also allows you to develop a website with more complete features. If you are using WordPress, you can use APIs for integration with various platforms. For example, like the WordPress REST API.

2. Types of APIs

Illustration (Credit: Unsplash)

After knowing the meaning of API, you also need to understand its types. Here is an explanation of the types of API that you can learn and understand.

1. Public API

Public API can also be called Open API. Anyone can use this type across platforms. Public API is also the easiest type.

Users only need to register and can immediately utilize it.

2. Partner API

Partner API can be used for general purposes, but is limited to authorized parties. You need to register first in order to use it in specific applications according to the agreement.

3. Private API

Usually, Private API is used for internal purposes in developing applications. This means not everyone can access this type of API.

For example, there is an API from the back end used to access the front end of a website. There are also applications for developing mobile applications.

4. Composite API

Composite API is a type that stores data from various servers or hosting in one place. Clearly, this will save you time because with one access, you can get various types of data.

3. Benefits of API for Developers

Illustration (Credit: Unsplash)

Not only the meaning of API and its types, you might also be curious about its benefits for developers. To some extent, perhaps you can imagine its functions. Now, here is an explanation about the benefits of API that you need to know.

1. Easier Development of Functional Applications

API allows you to build complex and functional applications. Moreover, you don't need to add data manually because API allows you to retrieve data from other applications.

For example, an online motorcycle taxi application does not need to enter map data because developers can retrieve it from Google Maps using API.

2. More Efficient Application Development

Communication through API makes cross-platform application processes more efficient. You can easily add or reduce service integrations according to your business development.

3. Lighter Server Load

API allows you to not store all the data needed by the server. With API, you only need to request the latest data from the original application server. This way, you can reduce the risk of server downtime, so the website cannot be accessed.

4. Example of API Usage

Illustration (Credit: Unsplash)

There are many types of APIs that have been previously explained. In the example of usage, you can see some famous industry giants. The following are examples of APIs:

- Google API

This API allows you to connect code to all Google services, such as Maps and Translate. It can be said that APIs are very important to Google, so it's no wonder that they later acquired Apigee, a large and famous API management platform.

- Universal Login

You can find this API example through the ease of accessing websites using Facebook, Twitter, or Google profiles.

- Google Maps

One of the most common examples of an API is Google Maps. In addition to displaying static or interactive maps, applications use APIs and other features to provide directions or interesting places to users. Of course, this becomes a convenience that you can immediately feel.

KLovers, that is an explanation of the meaning of APIs, types, benefits, and their usage that you need to know. APIs will greatly help your work as a developer.

(kpl/gen/ans)