What is an API? Why is it Used? Standards and HTTP Status Codes

1. What is an API?

An API (Application Programming Interface) is an interface that allows different software applications to communicate with each other. APIs facilitate data exchange between systems, accelerating business processes and enabling integrations.

2. Why Use an API?

• Data Sharing and Integration: Enables different systems to exchange data.
• Automation: Automates business processes and increases efficiency.
• Security: Restricts data access with authorization mechanisms.
• Flexibility and Scalability: Supports software modularity and growth.

3. API Standards

APIs should be developed following certain standards:

• RESTful API: Uses the HTTP protocol for data exchange.
• SOAP API: A protocol that works with XML-based messaging.
• GraphQL: A flexible query language that allows the client to specify the needed data.

4. HTTP Status Codes

API responses are expressed using specific HTTP status codes:

• 200 OK: Successful request.
• 201 Created: A new resource was created.
• 400 Bad Request: Invalid request.
• 401 Unauthorized: Authorization error.
• 403 Forbidden: Access denied.
• 404 Not Found: Resource not found.
• 500 Internal Server Error: Server error.

5. WAGONN’s Role

WAGONN provides expert consulting services in API integrations and software solutions, supporting businesses in their digital transformation. For more information on secure and scalable API solutions, click here.