Integrating with APIs is something every professional front-end developer will do at some point. In this article, Hikmah outlines the main concepts.
When you interact with a website, mobile app, or any digital service, a lot is happening behind the scenes to process the data you requested through the application. For this to happen, different pieces of software need to share information successfully.
In this article, we’ll explore Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), the different types of APIs you’d encounter as a developer, and some real-world examples of working with APIs. Let’s get started!
What is an API?
An API is a set of rules that allows different applications to communicate with each other. Depending on the API’s type and the communication methods it enables, information can be shared easily.
Developers can use APIs to access databases, send and retrieve data, and update information, among other things. We use APIs in our daily lives, like logging into a website with our social media accounts, submitting a form, using the weather app, etc.
Integrating an API on the front-end means getting information from a server and using it in the user interface, enabling real-time data retrieval and creating dynamic user experiences. However, not all APIs are limited to these as they have various functions and usage. Some APIs may focus on data storage, task automation, authentication, and more.
To use an API effectively, it is essential to have an in-depth understanding of the documentation provided. This documentation outlines important details such as endpoints, data formats, and authentication methods, ensuring a successful implementation.