API (Application Programming Interface) Definition

API (Application Programming Interface)

An API (Application Programming Interface) is a software interface that relays information between two different software applications.

Each API includes a set of definitions and protocols that enable computers, web servers, and software components to leverage data and functionality from another application.

An API’s definitions and protocols dictate what information is allowed to be retrieved from the application, and how that information is communicated to other systems.

APIs make code and functions from applications reusable in other computer programs and workflows.

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