Many people wonder, how do APIs and microservices work so well together? In order to wrap your mind around the idea of these two specific entities fusing together, you first need to understand the basics.
APIs: What are they?
Application Programming Interface (API) is a set of tools for building software. I always come back to the description of the restaurant menu to describe APIs for simple clarity. The restaurant menu serves as an interesting example: When you go to place your meal, the waiter has to take your order to the chef, he in turn, sends it back to your table. This is the starting point for APIs. Back and forth, working in tandem with one another via technology.
Microservices: What are they?
Microservices (also known as microservices architecture) is, according to Microservices.io, is “an architectural style that structures an application as a collection of services that are highly maintainable and testable, loosely coupled, independently deployable and organized around business capabilities.” With this technology, you are able to further your digital transformation with a little help from our API friends.
APIs and microservices: An excellent pair
APIs work in tandem with microservices because APIs create a border by which microservices can be bundled and surfaced. This technology makes security, control, and points that can be reused so microservices can function in an efficient and smooth manner. Read more about the role of APIs in microservices here.
With APIs, they bring a reasonable starting point for microservices to work together in an efficient manner. APIs are able to address such concerns as security and act as a central space for which microservices can thrive. Microservices need to be able to intermingle. In order for microservices to truly soar, APIs are needed for interacting between specific services. APIs are a true catalyst for microservices. Once you have well-specified APIs in place, from there your microservices may be able to function to the best of their abilities.
Learn more about the magic of microservices here.