API Integration Guide: Best Practices for Modern Applications

APIs are the backbone of modern software. Every app you use connects to dozens of APIs. Here is how to do it right.

REST vs GraphQL

REST - Simple, well-understood, HTTP-based - Best for CRUD operations and public APIs - Multiple endpoints, potential over-fetching

GraphQL - Single endpoint, query exactly what you need - Best for complex data relationships - Steeper learning curve

Authentication Best Practices 1. Use OAuth 2.0 for third-party integrations 2. JWT tokens for stateless authentication 3. API keys for server-to-server communication 4. Always use HTTPS 5. Implement token refresh and expiry

Error Handling - Use standard HTTP status codes (200, 400, 401, 404, 500) - Return descriptive error messages - Implement retry logic with exponential backoff

Rate Limiting Protect your APIs from abuse. Implement per-user rate limits, return 429 status.

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