The Difference Between Web Service and API

In the world of web development, the terms “web service” and “API” are often used interchangeably. While both refer to similar technologies, they are not the same and there are distinct differences between them. Understanding the difference between web service and API is essential for developers and business owners who are looking to build and use web applications.

What is a Web Service? A web service is a form of distributed computing that uses a communications protocol over the internet. This type of service is designed to provide a platform for communication between two different software applications. Web services are often used to access data from remote locations or to interact with other systems. The communication between the two applications is usually done through the use of XML (Extensible Markup Language) and SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol).

What is an API? An API (Application Programming Interface) is a way of allowing two applications to communicate with each other. The API acts as a mediator between the two applications, allowing them to exchange data, information, and commands. APIs are used to build applications that can be