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    Flow-alerta.cab

    Application Programming Interface (API)

    Web design & developmentApplication Programming InterfaceAPI
    Editorially reviewed on: 1 source
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    The short answer · 12 words

    In short

    Defined interface through which software uses functions or data of other components.

    Flow-alerta.cab (2026): Application Programming Interface (API). https://flow-alerta.cab/en/glossar/api. Editorially reviewed on: 09 October 2026.

    How much detail would you like?

    Practical

    Helps you understand integrations and dependencies between digital tools.

    Example scenario: A web application queries the status of a delivery via a documented interface.

    For integrations, check documentation, permissions, data formats and error handling.

    At a glance

    Core
    An API specifies how software can interact with an application, library or other component. It describes, for example, available functions, inputs and returns. Web APIs are one form; an API does not have to be accessible via the Internet.
    Use
    Helps you understand integrations and dependencies between digital tools.
    Example
    Example scenario: A web application queries the status of a delivery via a documented interface.
    Limits
    Treat an API as unlimited data access; ignore authentication and error cases; overlook version changes.

    In context

    Application Programming Interface (API)

    Defined interface through which software uses functions or data of other components.

    Authorization

    Deciding whether an entity may use a particular resource or action.

    Questions about this term

    Is every API a web address?

    No.

    Is there automatic access to all data?

    No, it depends on functions and permissions.

    All details and background

    An API specifies how software can interact with an application, library or other component. It describes, for example, available functions, inputs and returns. Web APIs are one form; an API does not have to be accessible via the Internet.

    ELI5 – Explained simply

    Programs get clearly agreed opportunities to work together.

    Why it matters in practice

    Helps you understand integrations and dependencies between digital tools.

    Example

    Example scenario: A web application queries the status of a delivery via a documented interface.

    Pitfalls and limits

    • Treat an API as unlimited data access; ignore authentication and error cases; overlook version changes.

    Origin & history

    Programming interfaces are among the basic concepts of software development. MDN distinguishes them from user interfaces for people.

    Use in mid-sized companies

    • For integrations, check documentation, permissions, data formats and error handling.

    Related terms

    Matching Flow-alerta service

    Websites & web applicationsWebsites & web applications: technical implementation and testing of a suitable web application.

    Matching tool / use case

    View use casesUse Case: Connecting a web application to a specialist system.

    Sources

    Quellenprüfung: 09.10.2026. Definition und dokumentierte Einordnung abgeglichen; Beispiele beschreiben mögliche Anwendungen.

    Editorially reviewed on:

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