Application Programming Interface (API)

An Application Programming Interface (API) is a set of rules and protocols that allows different software programs to communicate with each other, exchange data, and perform actions without needing to know the infra-structure of each other's systems.

APIs act as a broker for enabling seamless integration and ality with various applications by providing defined ways for them to request and receive data.

How do APIs work?

APIs work by providing actions and data points to enable external software to interact. When a software application wants to access resources of another system, usually an operating system (OS), it sends a request detailing the needed action. Such a request is made via an API and if the API is authorized, the OS processes the request and returns a response.

Why are APIs important?

APIs are important because they drive scalability, enable automation and facilitate integration, allowing seamless interaction with vother software components.

Benefits of APIs

The benefits of APIs include cost-efficiency, data accessibility, faster processing, and enhanced security. Being a separate component, the inner workings of the API cannot be exploited, and the interaction with the operating system (OS) cannot be compromised.

APIs for Copy Protection

The Copysafe Helper Service was the first API developed for copy protection. Copysafe ran as a Windows service to intercept copy commands and control the cliboard at system level. As a trusted service it had elevated rights to action at system level. Copysafe could be actioned by Mozilla based web browsers via a NPAPI plugin interface. Internet Explorer could use an ActiveX equivalent.

Today all operating systems OS (except Linux) have an inbuilt API for copy protection that applications can call when needed.

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