MentisCell – API (Application Programming Interface)

Summary

API (Application Programming Interface) is a set of definitions, protocols, and tools that enable software applications to communicate with each other. APIs allow developers to access functionality or data from other systems without needing to understand their internal implementation.

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MentisCell – API

Content

Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) act as bridges between different software systems.
They define how requests and responses are structured, enabling interoperability, modularity, and scalability in modern applications.

Main functions

Interoperability: allow different applications and platforms to exchange data and functionality.
Abstraction: hide internal complexity while exposing usable endpoints.
Reusability: enable developers to build on existing services instead of reinventing functionality.
Scalability: support modular architectures such as microservices.
Security: enforce authentication, authorization, and controlled access to resources.
Innovation: accelerate development by integrating external services and ecosystems.

Types of APIs

REST (Representational State Transfer): widely used for web services, based on HTTP and JSON.
SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol): XML-based, often used in enterprise systems.
GraphQL: query language for APIs, allowing clients to request specific data.
gRPC: high-performance RPC framework using Protocol Buffers.
Open APIs (Public APIs): available to external developers for integration.
Internal APIs: restricted to internal systems for modularity and efficiency.

Use cases

Integrating payment gateways into e-commerce platforms.
Connecting mobile apps with cloud-based backends.
Enabling third-party developers to build on top of a platform.
Automating workflows by linking enterprise applications.
Supporting microservices communication in distributed systems.

Essence

Standardized way for applications to interact.
Promotes modularity, scalability, and innovation.
Critical enabler of digital ecosystems and platform economies.
Ensures secure and efficient data exchange.

Interconnections

ITOM — APIs support automation and integration in IT operations.
ITSM — APIs enable service desk and workflow integrations.
APM — APIs are monitored for performance and reliability.
RPA — APIs complement RPA by providing structured integrations instead of UI automation.

Contributors

Created with the support of Microsoft Copilot on 2025-11-10.
Validation and editorial direction by Jorge Godoy.