Application programming interface

An application programming interface (API) is a defined set of rules through which software components request functions or data from one another.

Function call: A request to execute a function, optionally passing arguments and receiving a result. An API operation is often invoked through a function call.
Software component: A modular software unit that provides functionality through defined interfaces. An API connects the capabilities of one component to another.
REST: An architectural style for networked systems built around resources and a uniform interface. REST is a widely used style for designing web APIs.
Command-line interface: A text-based interface through which a person enters commands to control software. A command-line interface serves human operators, while an API primarily serves software.
Software ecosystem: A network of software products, services, developers, and organizations connected through shared technologies. APIs let separate products and organizations participate in a shared software ecosystem.
Remote procedure call: A protocol that lets software invoke a procedure on another computer as if it were local. It applies the API idea across a network boundary.
Software library: Reusable code that applications call to perform defined tasks. A library commonly exposes its capabilities through an API.
GraphQL: A query language and runtime that lets clients request specific data from a server. GraphQL defines an API approach centered on client-shaped data queries.
Graphical user interface: A visual interface that lets people interact with software through elements such as windows and buttons. A GUI presents controls to people rather than defining software-to-software operations.
Platform economy: An economic model in which digital platforms enable interactions among groups of users or businesses. APIs can expose platform capabilities to outside developers and businesses.

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