What is API integration?

[subornaakter40]

What is an API? A clear introduction to the mechanism of API integration, its advantages and disadvantages, and concrete examples
2019-08-16(Updated: 2025-01-30 )
Email Delivery BasicsIT knowledge

Following on from last time, this is a super introductory IT column to explain "API integration."



Table of Contents [Hide]

1. What is an API (Application Programming Interface)?
2. How the API works
3. What is API integration?
4. API Integration Mechanism
5. Benefits of API Integration
5.1. Advantage 1 [A wide range of services can be easily provided]
5.2. Benefit 2 [Improved development efficiency and cost reduction]
5.3. Benefit 3 [Improved security and customer satisfaction]
6. Disadvantages of API Integration
6.1. Disadvantages ① Dependence on API provider
6.2. Disadvantages 2. Server failure
7. Examples of API integration
7.1. Actual implementation examples
8. Arara Messages can be integrated with API!
9. Summary
What is an API (Application Programming Interface)?
API stands for Application Programming Interface, and refers to the function that connects applications. Using APIs, different software and programs can be linked. There have been ways to link applications in the past, but it was not as easy as it is today. For example, it was possible to analyze data output by a spreadsheet software using other software, but there was a problem that it was necessary to switch to each application to use the required function. In addition, linking required development according to the unique procedures and specifications of each application, which could be difficult to implement.

However, a development method called "microservices" that combines various web services using existing APIs is currently attracting attention. APIs are essential for using microservices, so it is also necessary to understand how APIs work.



API means sharing software functionality



How the API works
APIs are used to send requests and responses between applications. For example, if you want to allow customers to shop at an online store using a credit card, the store does not need to take list of timeshare owners the trouble of developing a credit card payment function. The store can allow customers to purchase products by simply requesting credit card information from the API set up by the credit card company and waiting for the response to see whether the payment has been accepted.

The advantage of this is that you don't have to manage your own credit card information, which reduces security concerns. Another advantage is that customers can easily register and purchase without worrying about forgetting to enter their credit card information or personal information each time.




API integration refers to the integration between apps or systems to enhance their functionality. This makes it easier to use data from different apps or systems wherever needed. For example, when you perform an order procedure in-house, it can be automatically linked to an electronic payment system to complete the contract procedure, making for a smooth process.



How API integration works
Let's take a closer look at how API integration works. Earlier, we mentioned the example of a web shop and a credit card company, but an API is made up of requests and responses. For example, the web shop makes a request, and the credit card company responds. This is just one example, and the content and rules of the request and response are decided by the API provider. The relationship between requests and responses will change depending on the provider's settings.

It is not that difficult to use an API for your own services. You can use the information or action you want by simply requesting it based on the rules. The information or action you want will vary depending on your purpose, but if you make an appropriate request based on the rules, you will receive a response from the API provider.