API Calls
API calls are requests made by a client application to interact with a server or external service through an Application Programming Interface (API). They enable communication between different software systems, typically using protocols like HTTP/HTTPS to send and receive data in formats such as JSON or XML. This concept is fundamental for building modern web and mobile applications that rely on distributed architectures and third-party services.
Developers should learn API calls because they are essential for integrating with external services (e.g., payment gateways, social media platforms, or cloud APIs) and building client-server applications. They are used in scenarios like fetching data from a backend, submitting forms, or automating tasks, making them critical for full-stack development, microservices, and IoT applications. Mastery of API calls improves interoperability and efficiency in software projects.