If you’re building a new API or going through an API switch, it’s important to know which one is best for you. An API (application programming interface) is what connects you to your software and your data.

APIs enable your apps to communicate with each other while allowing you to access their data. The two most common APIs are REST APIs and SOAP APIs, but if you’re a beginner, it’s hard to know what the difference is.

Different Types of APIs

Depending on your needs, there are different types of APIs you can choose from. Each of these has different benefits and limitations, so it’s important to do your research and choose the API that fits with your priorities.

SOAP APIs and REST APIs both describe the approach used to transfer data through your apps. The difference between them lies in how your apps make, process, and answer data requests.

SOAP APIs

A SOAP API, or simple object access protocol API, is a protocol most common for web services and uses XML (Extensible Markup Language) to allow your applications to communicate. SOAP APIs require a Web Services Description Language document to define strict parameters.

SOAP API Benefits

SOAP API benefits include:

  • Highly structured messages
  • Allows for multi-step workflows
  • Flexibility in non-web environments
  • Built-in security measures

SOAP API Limitations

SOAP API limitations include:

  • Only supports XML
  • Slower load times because of the massive amount of data and lack of caching
  • Complex to learn
  • Relies on tools like WSDL parsers and code generators

REST APIs

A REST API, or representational state transfer API, connects software systems, apps, and web services using basic HTTP methods. This architectural style is becoming an increasingly popular way to build an API, making it easier for other developers who have worked with REST APIs before.

REST API Benefits

Rest API benefits include:

  • Straightforward and scalable
  • Uses HTTP features
  • Caching abilities
  • Can also translate JSON or SML formats
  • More control over the data you receive

REST API Limitations

REST API limitations include:

  • The data returned may be extensive and not exactly what you need (over-fetching or under-fetching)
  • Best used for simple actions (create, read, update, and delete) instead of command functions
  • Limited security and relies on HTTPS for encryption
  • Less suited for multi-step workflows

SOAP API vs REST API

The main difference between a SOAP API and a REST API is that SOAP is a more structured protocol, while REST is more flexible. However, with that comes different security measures.

For industries dealing with a lot of encrypted data, like healthcare or finance, SOAP APIs are more common. For industries that need a little more flexibility and require less structured connections, like eCommerce or manufacturing, REST APIs are probably your best bet.

API Integration with eOne Solutions

Configure your connection with your data and your API options, then use eOne’s product interfaces to create your integrations.

  • Create JSON files for the connection setup.
  • Create REST service definitions or import existing REST definitions for use as a connection.
  • Design REST service definitions that access a specific portion of an API or create entries for every endpoint.
  • Specify entities and methods to use as a source or destination.
  • Export any created REST service definitions for use on other instances.

Popdock API Creation Capabilities

Popdock allows you to query various types of data and publish your data source as an API with the click of a button. This is useful for:

  • Creating a complex query across multiple tables and using the Popdock API as a source for integrations.
  • Creating a complex query across multiple data sources and using the Popdock API as the source for integrations.
  • Using the Popdock API as a data source in BI tools like PowerBI or Tableau.

Closing Thoughts

When comparing SOAP API vs REST API, you can tell both have their pros and cons, especially regarding security, load time, and flexibility. Whether you’re building your API yourself, hiring a developer, or taking advantage of the eOne iPaaS solution, understanding the key differences in these APIs ensures you’ll have everything you need to make an informed decision.

Make sure your data doesn’t get left behind. Move and edit your data with eOne Solutions.