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💡 If you’re not familiar with APIs or you want to refresh your knowledge, take your time to go through the following mini-course. It includes everything you need to know to work with APIs and answer any relevant questions in your interviews!
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🔎 What is an API?
An API, or Application Programming Interface, is a set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate with each other. It defines the methods and data formats that applications can use to request and exchange information.
📺 Watch and Learn: To understand what an API is and how it works, watch this video:
**What is an API?**
Video by MuleSoft Videos on YouTube
Why are APIs Important?
- APIs enable the integration of different systems and services, allowing them to work together seamlessly. They facilitate the exchange of data and functionality, enabling the creation of powerful and feature-rich applications.
APIs in Data Engineering
- In data engineering, APIs play a crucial role in accessing and extracting data from various sources, such as web services, databases, and external platforms. This data can then be processed, transformed, and utilized for various purposes.
🔐 Accessing an API: Beginner's Guide
What You Need:
- API Endpoint: The web address where the API lives.
- Access Credentials: Like a secret password to use the API.
Types of Access Credentials:
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API Key:
- Think of it like a passcode to enter a club.
- A unique string of characters is given to you by the API provider.
- Include it in your API requests to prove you have access.
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Access Token:
- Imagine it as a special ticket for a specific event.
- Generated after you sign in to the API provider's website.
- Include it in your requests for authorization.
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OAuth Tokens:
- Like a backstage pass for a concert.
- Allows third-party apps to access your account without giving them your password.
- Used for more secure and controlled access
📺 Watch and Learn: To learn about accessing APIs and using API keys, watch this video:
What Are API Keys, And Why Are They So Important? | System Design Interview Basics
Video by Big Tech Coach on YouTube