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API Last modified: Monday, January 14, 2008
Abbreviation of application program interface, a set of routines, protocols, and tools for building software applications. A good API makes it easier to develop a program by providing all the building blocks. A programmer then puts the blocks together. Most operating environments, such as MS-Windows, provide an API so that programmers can write applications consistent with the operating environment. Although APIs are designed for programmers, they are ultimately good for users because they guarantee that all programs using a common API will have similar interfaces. This makes it easier for users to learn new programs.
DOS Protected Mode Interface (DPMI) This is a programmer's reference copy of the DOS Protected Mode Interface, a protected mode API specification for DOS extended applications. Microsoft Internet Server API (ISAPI) information page Provides a brief description of Microsoft's Internet Server API (ISAPI), along with a link to information on CGI. eBay API For Developers With the eBay API you communicate directly with the eBay database in XML format. By using the API, your application can provide a custom interface, functionality and specialized operations not otherwise afforded by the eBay interface. Google Maps API The Google Maps API lets you embed Google Maps in your own web pages with JavaScript. The API provides a number of utilities for manipulating maps and adding content to the map through a variety of services, allowing you to create robust maps applications on your Web site. Webopedia Did You Know...? All About DirectX While you may be familiar with the "Would you like to install DirectX now?" window, do you know what DirectX is, and why it is important to keep an updated version of it on your PC?	Related Categories Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) Related Terms APM Cryptography API: Next Generation Direct X interface ISAPI J2ME MIDlet MIDP NSAPI programmer SAX VAPI