Application Programming Interface (API)

Applicationprogramming interface

In computer programming, an ApplicationProgramming Interface (API) is a set of routine definitions, protocols, andtools for building software and applications. A good API makes it easier todevelop a program by providing all the building blocks, which are then put togetherby the programmer. An API may be for a web-based system, operating system,computer hardware, or software library. An API specification can take manyforms, but often include specifications for routines, data structures, objectclasses, variables, or remote calls.