An API, or Application Programming Interface, is a standardized set of rules, protocols, and tools that allow different apps or software components to communicate and interact with each other.
For example, Windows API is a comprehensive API provided by Microsoft, which allows developers to create applications for Windows without building everything from scratch. With thousands of pre-defined functions, the Windows API provides access to system resources and functionalities, such as:
Creating and managing windows: Developers can set up windows, manage screen elements, and handle user interactions.
File handling: Functions allow reading, writing, and managing files on the system.
System interactions: It includes access to processes, memory management, network communication, and device management.
By using these functions, developers can leverage existing operating system capabilities, speeding up development and ensuring that applications integrate seamlessly with Windows. This approach not only saves development time but also ensures consistency and reliability across applications.