Data Archive

API

An API (Application Programming Interfaces) allows one system (client) to request specific actions from another system (server).

Using a predefined set of rules and protocols.

Good API documentation is necessary for developers to integrate and use APIs effectively.

Resources:

API Principles

  1. Controlled Access: APIs provide access to certain parts of a system while keeping the core functionalities secure.
  2. System Independence: APIs function independently of changes in the underlying system.
  3. Simplicity: APIs are designed to be user-friendly and come with comprehensive documentation to guide developers.

Implementation

In ML_Tools see: Wikipedia_API.py

Example:

For instance, a weather app querying a weather API to fetch the current weather conditions involves sending a structured request and receiving a response.

Types of API Connections:

  1. Web APIs: These facilitate communication between web clients (browsers or apps) and servers. For example, online shopping apps use APIs to process transactions on remote servers.
  2. Database APIs: These allow applications to interact with databases, ensuring data is accessed and manipulated efficiently.
  3. Device APIs: When apps like Instagram or WhatsApp request access to your phone’s camera or microphone, they use device APIs.

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