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Many applications require some kind of application programming interface (API), which enables communication with internal or external services/applications. In contrast to user interfaces, APIs connect servers and software components with each other. Thus, often they are not actively perceived by end users, as there is no direct interaction. However, APIs play an important role in modern application architectures, such as microservices architecture, as they can definitely impact the overall user experience. Most applications, even seemingly small and medium sized ones, are by fact distributed systems that communicate over networks. This communication using APIs is of utmost importance for the development of functioning applications.

GraphQL is a query language, as well as a runtime, designed for APIs. The GraphQL service itself is transport agnostic, but it is often used in combination with HTTP. While GraphQL allows you full autonomy on how to build your APIs, its specification offers a number of design principles, which underline the ideas behind its development: GraphQL is product-centric and hierarchical. Its services are strongly-typed and are able to provide client-specific responses. Furthermore, a GraphQL service supports introspection over its schema. Taken together, this enables addressing issues such as over- and underfetching of data, as well as management of endpoints.

One huge advantage of REST using HTTP, which GraphQL itself lacks, is the relatively easy way you can handle caching. REST web APIs have dedicated URLs that can be associated with specific response data, allowing to build caching solutions. GraphQL APIs, however, do not have a multitude of routes. This drawback is addressed by prominent GraphQL client solutions - such as the Apollo Client or Relay -, which besides caching provide additional useful functionality for your APIs.

APIs need to be tested to ensure that they are secure, reliable, and perform as expected. Testing helps to identify any potential issues with an API before it is released into production. It also helps to ensure that the API meets the requirements of its users.

How can APIs be tested?

APIs can be tested using a variety of methods, such as unit testing, integration testing, and functional testing. Unit testing is used to test individual components of an API. Integration testing is used to test how different components of an API interact with each other. Functional testing is used to test the functionality of an API.

But don't worry, we'll help setting up a solid testing strategy for your APIs automating as much of the testing as possible.