Understanding APIs: 10 API Concepts and Examples
APIs are vital in enabling communication between applications and data. This post explains the basics of APIs, types such as Public, Private, and Partner APIs, and details both REST and SOAP APIs. Key principles of REST APIs, differences between JSON and XML, HTTP methods, and essential concepts of API endpoints are covered. It discusses API security with authentication and authorization, and how to test APIs effectively using tools like Postman, cURL, and Swagger.
