Most of the internet sites that you visit are conducting private communications behind the scenes...and you probably aren’t even aware of it. For example, when you order something from an online store, the payment is processed by a separate merchant, the invoice is sent to a warehouse and your customer information is stored in a marketing database. This exchange is handled transparently via an API. Modern websites, apps and businesses use this technology to expand the value of their site. Websites and services are no longer relegated to localized features.
API stands for Application Programming Interface. It’s basically a set of digital messages that communicate via a common protocol. An API enables interaction between various platforms like an ecommerce site, mobile app, shipping warehouse or other global data resources. This connectivity is a crucial part of today’s internet.
Think of an API like the pipes and wires inside the walls of your house. You don’t see them but they’re delivering critical services throughout your home. An API delivers critical communication throughout the internet. But how do you put it all together?