
What is an API?
Different API types
Open APIs
Partner APIs
Internal APIs
- Hypertext Transfer Protocol: Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is the most popular protocol for sending information over the internet. A web API will often use HTTP.
- Representational State Transfer: Representational State Transfer (REST) determines the rules for web application development. You can use this architecture to create a RESTful API.
- Simple Object Access Protocol: Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP) uses XML to transmit information in web services.
- Remote Procedure Call: Remote Procedure Call (RPC) is a protocol that defines the standards for requesting information from remote computers. It's used to create an RPC API.
Differences between custom APIs and pre-built APIs
Speed
Cost
Control
When should you build a custom API?
You have the resources for API software development
You have specific requirements
You're serious about security
You want to outrank your rivals
How to get started with buying or building APIs
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