AI & the web
API
Application programming interface: a defined way for software components to interact.
In everyday use
A store sends an order event to another service through an API.
What to keep in mind
Access can require credentials and permissions; an API is not necessarily public.
Also searched as: application programming interface
Further reading
Original explanation and example by Perspectism. Further reading may cover the wider subject, rather than this exact wording. Edition updated 7 October 2026.
More in ai & the web
Page updated .