Application programming interfaces (APIs) have become integral to modern software applications. But what exactly are APIs, and how do they relate to servers? Let's break it down.
What is an API?
An API (application programming interface) is a set of definitions, protocols, and tools for building software applications. In simple terms, an API allows different applications to talk to each other by providing a standardized set of rules.
Some key characteristics of APIs:
What is a Server?
A server is a computer program or device that provides functionality for other programs or devices, called "clients". Servers often provide essential services across a network, like handling requests and delivering data.
Some examples of servers:
Are APIs Servers?
APIs themselves are not servers. Rather, APIs sit on top of servers.
An API server handles the API requests and responses. The server stores and executes the API logic, while the API specifies how other applications can interact with the server.
So in summary:
While APIs define interfaces, separate API server implementations actually execute the logic and provide the underlying functionality. The API documentation explains how to interact with the API server.
Key Takeaways
So APIs themselves are not servers, but they expose interfaces provided by API servers for applications to leverage.