What are the different types of APIs?

An application programming interface (API) acts as a source of communication between software programs. With the help of an API, a developer doesn't have to write code from scratch. They can simply use an existing API that can save them time and resources. Using an API also helps with software integration, which in turn improves user experience.

Types of APIs

The four APIs commonly used in web-based applications are as follows:

• Open

• Private

• Composite

• Partner

Open APIs

Open APIs, also known as public APIs, are publicly accessible to developers and other users. A company that creates and provides a public API has a business strategy that includes sharing its applications and data with other businesses. They may require a registration API key or be open to the public. 

Private APIs

Private APIs, also known as internal APIs, are created by software teams to meet the needs of specific developers within the same organization.

Composite APIs

Composite APIs connect two or more APIs to combine a series of linked or interdependent operations. Composite APIs can be very beneficial in terms of improving speed and performance over individual APIs.

Partner APIs

Partner APIs are only available to specifically selected and authorized outside developers or API consumers. They are a means to facilitate business-to-business activities. This model enables businesses and developers to connect with other businesses in otherwise impossible ways.

Conclusion

Considering APIs from both the software development and business collaboration perspectives, their importance grows significantly. The two most important tasks for developers are to choose an API that meets a company's specific business needs and to understand how to add value to it