Are you someone into software architecture and integration? If yes, chances are high that you often encounter the age-old discussion between Microservices vs API. Not only these concepts are regular items of discussion in the software sector, but usually, there is found an overlap between the functions of API and Microservices. Not many can distinguish between their uses, but this article will thoroughly cover the features, differences, and functions of these two.
Comprehending the divergence between microservices vs API will lead to an uncomplicated implementation of the software functions.
What is API?
Whats an API? API stands for application programming interface which can be defined as a fragment of an application that bridges the gap between applications through communication. In more technical terms describing whats API, it can be described as a group of protocols and approaches explaining how two applications communicate and revise each other’s data.
In Microservices vs API, the latter is a necessity in the present-day digital infrastructure since they conduct systematized and efficient communication among diverse applications that may have different purposes and compositions. The API in Microservices vs API stands in the middle of the software’s center segments and the public. One good part is, that external developers have the access to numerous parts of an application without having to know about how the application functions.
What are APIs Used For?
When it comes to Microservices vs API, the latter’s application is quite common these days whenever there is a blend of two applications. The function of API is integrating two software and enabling them to operate smoothly in their ways. What is API management?
Let’s begin with Microservices vs API with the help of online shopping. We all engage in online shopping for diverse needs. So, one day after completing online shopping you notice during checkout that the store offers payment through PayPal (a payment processor). You’re excited since you already have an account there.
So, in Microservices vs API, the latter facilitates the transaction you will make through PayPal to the store. It utilizes PayPal’s payment gateway API for asking for payment information. Then the PayPal API examines the information and delivers it to the store. Eventually, the store receives the correct customer information and completes the transaction. This is how Microservices vs API can be distinguished.
What are Microservices?
In the difference between Microservices vs API, the former can be described as a design of software architecture that segregates an application’s diverse functions into minute components named ‘services’. If an application is devised in this manner, it is stated to follow a microservice architecture.
To draw the line between Microservices vs API, let us retake the example of PayPal. This payment processor might comprise individual services indulging in user account management, association with online merchants, and user authentication. Now, each of these Microservices works independently within the software application.
Why Should you use Microservice Architecture?
To understand the role of the former in Microservices vs API, the role of monolith needs to be understood. A monolithic application is just contrary to a microservice environment. It emphasizes more on creating a solo platform for handling all the functions and services rather than assigning myriad self-contained API Microservices to each task.
But, it is with the advent of Microservices vs API, that the former has led to the below advancements in working.
- Updates: In Microservices vs API, the first one doesn’t mandate modification of the complete system to update individual services, saving money and time as well.
- Simplistic: The developer doesn’t need to undergo the pain of comprehending the complete system architecture just to know one part of the software.
- Team Association: In Microservices vs API, the first one offers coordination between the developer and their responsibilities.
There are more to the features of Microservices when describing Microservices vs API. But now, let us learn some differences between these two.
Microservices vs API
Below are some major comparisons listed between Microservices vs API that sum up the difference between the two.
1. In Microservices and API, the latter is a segment of a web application that associates with other applications. A specific software’s API describes a group of acceptable requests to be provided to the API and responds to those requests.
Whereas, while discussing Microservices vs API, the first one can be described as a technique of developing an application to break down an application’s function into numerous small services and self-contained programs. Microservice makes a seamless menu navigation feature.
2. Some biggies like Netflix, Amazon, and Etsy shifted from the monolithic way to incorporating Microservices in their main navigation. Some examples of APIs are PayPal, weather snippets, log-in using XYZ, Twitter bots, and also travel booking.
When it comes to Microservices vs API, both are quite interchangeably used while working in software. The main key is making both phenomena work together. Though both might be the gateway to unfolding capabilities, the trick is to know how to put both of them together effortlessly. But, if you are someone confused about the difference, Algoworks, with its competent team will help you understand.
About Us: Algoworks a B2B IT firm providing end-to-end product development services. Operating chiefly from its California office, Algoworks is reputed for its partnership with Fortune 500 companies such as Amazon, Dell, Salesforce, and Microsoft. The company’s key IT service offerings include Mobility, Salesforce consulting and development, UI UX Design Consultation, DevOps, and Enterprise Application Integration. For more information, contact us here.
