Application Programming Interface or API in the simplest of terms is the messenger between applications, the server and the end-user. The end-user enters data into an application to get the desired result, this data is converted into a language that the server understands and is transferred to the server for action, the action (it could either be the desired result or otherwise) is then communicated to the end-user in a language they understand. All of this transfer of data and conversion into understandable language is done by API. There are four major types of API, but one can also get API tailor-made to suit specific requirements by custom API development companies in India.
Type 1: The Public or Open API
As the name suggests, public or open application programming interface is open to the public. The restrictions in this type of API are very few, in fact, it is meant to be accessible by everyone. Of the numerous custom API development services in India, setting up a minimum restriction of access upon registration is available even with respect to public or open APIs.
Type 2: The partner Application Programming Interface
Custom API development companies in India also develop “partner APIs”. They are suitable for business operations as access is granted only to partners in the business. As opposed to open APIs, to gain access to a partner API one has to get past processes that require identity validation. The data regarding identity could be specific to each partner, or it could be common for all of the partners. They are, however, still visible to the general public at large, even though access is restricted
Type 3: The Internal or Private API
The internal or private API is completely hidden to external eyes. It is made available solely to those manning the internal systems. Internal APIs are usually developed to facilitate intra-company communication between employees or departments or various departmental heads. Like in partner APIs, internal APIs also involves a process of identity validation and authorization to access the internal systems.
Type 4: The composite Application Programming Interface
Custom API development services in India also involve the development of composite APIs that brings together multiple data. This is preferred to execute tasks that require information from several different service APIs. Composite APIs enable developer’s access to multiple endpoints.
