Application programming interface
API · The defined rules and addresses that let two pieces of software send and receive data; for example, your website talks to your accounting software through an API.
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Why it matters
An API lets two pieces of software exchange data by agreed rules; tracking details from a courier, an invoice landing in accounting software or the data a mobile app fetches from a server all arrive this way. A well-designed API is secure and maintainable thanks to authentication, rate limits and versioning.
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Example
When an order is completed on a shop, the site sends a shipment request to the courier's API and e-mails the returned tracking number to the customer. Nobody copies the information by hand.
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Common mistake
Embedding API keys in app code or scripts that run in the browser. The key becomes public and others can send requests in your name; keys belong on the server, in secret variables.
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Related terms
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