API TESTING 101: What Are APIs and Why They Matter.

API stands for Application Programming Interface. It defines the way different software components should interact with each other.

What Are APIs and Why You Should Care? ??

APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are a collection of protocols, guidelines, and tools that help different software components interact with each other. The purpose of APIs is to simplify software development by providing a standardised process for different systems to share information with each other.

APIs can be advantageous in numerous ways:

1. They can help developers save time and effort, as they don't have to put together the nitty-gritty details of communication protocols.
2. They provide a standardised way for communication, simplifying the software development process.
3. They can enhance security, as APIs provide authentication and access control mechanisms.
4. They can improve the user experience by providing seamless integration among components.

Example in Action ??:

One of the most commonly used APIs is Google Maps API, which allows developers to integrate maps and location data points into their applications.

Explain Like I'm Twelve ????:

You know how sometimes you like a song on a music app on your phone and want to share it with your friends? Or maybe you want to post your new best score of your favourite game online?

But how do you do that when your friends don't have access to your music app or your game?

That's where APIs come in! In order to make that happen, multiple applications (music app/game and social media app) need to talk to each other.

APIs are like special helpers who can carry information and secret codes between different apps, so you can easily share your music and game scores with your friends and on social media.