What is an API and what is it used for

Introduction

An API, or Application Programming Interface, is a way for two applications to communicate with each other in a controlled way.

Thanks to an API, a website, app or online store can send data, receive information or trigger actions in another system without direct access to its internal code.

What an API is used for

APIs are used in many common processes:

• Connecting an online store to a payment gateway.
• Sending forms to a CRM.
• Integrating a website with email marketing tools.
• Syncing products, orders or users between platforms.

How it works

An application usually sends a request to a URL or endpoint. The receiving system validates the request and returns a response, often in JSON format.

Conclusion

An API connects systems without mixing their internal logic. It is a core building block for automation, integrations and modern web services.