API Fundamentals
/Intermediate
API Architecture Overview
Definition
The structural design patterns used to build APIs, primarily including REST, GraphQL, SOAP, and gRPC.
Explain Like I'm New
Just like there are different ways to build a house (Wood frame, Brick, Concrete), there are different ways to build APIs. REST uses standard URLs. GraphQL lets the client ask for exactly what it wants. SOAP uses strict XML envelopes. gRPC uses hyper-fast binary streams.
Real World Example
A legacy bank from 2005 probably uses SOAP (extremely strict and secure XML). A standard modern web startup uses REST. A complex social network with deeply nested data (like Facebook) uses GraphQL.
Common Use Cases
- •System design
- •Choosing the right tool for the job
Interactive Example
Loading...
Console output will appear here...
Interview Questions
basic
- Which API architecture is currently the most popular and widespread on the internet?
intermediate
- Why would a team choose gRPC over REST for microservice communication?