Understanding APIs

Introduction

• Connectivity: The modern world is interconnected allowing us to interact seamlessly.
• Devices/Applications: Examples include purchasing, posting, pinning, picking services online.

The Importance of APIs

• Definition: Application Programming Interface (API).
• Role: APIs enable interactivity and connectivity between different systems.

Simplified Explanation

• Messenger Role: API acts as a messenger that sends requests and returns responses.

Analogy: API as a Waiter

• Restaurant Scenario:
  • Customer (User): Makes an order (request).
  • Waiter (API): Communicates the order to the kitchen (system) and brings back the food (response).
  • Kitchen (System): Prepares the food (processes the request).

Real-World API Example: Booking Flights

• Steps:
  • Choose departure city, date, return city, class, etc.
  • Airline website accesses its database for seats, costs.
  • If using a travel service, it interacts with the airline's API.
  • API Role: Fetches data from airlines, answers booking requests, meal preferences, baggage options.

API and Online Services

• Travel Sites: Online travel services utilize APIs to fetch and aggregate information from multiple airlines.
• General Use: Any interaction between applications, data, and devices occurs through APIs.

Conclusion

• Connectivity Creator: APIs act behind the scenes to enable digital connectivity and convenience.
• MuleSoft: Mentioned as a tool for creating APIs.