API (Application Programming Interface)

A set of routines that an application uses to request and carry out lower-level services performed by a computer’s or device’s operating system. These routines usually carry out maintenance tasks such as managing files and displaying information. For example, the Windows API consists of a large number of procedures and data areas that can be used by programs running under Windows. With modern operating systems, it is important for programs to use the operating system API, as far as possible, rather than manipulating hardware directly, because direct manipulation of hardware can interfere with other programs that are running concurrently.

Sources:

⠀ Dictionary of computer and Internet terms / Douglas A. Downing, Michael A. Covington, Melody Mauldin Covington. — 10th ed. – 561 c. – 31

⠀ Dictionary of Computer and Internet Terms (Vol. 1) John C. Rigdon, 2016 – 1471 c. – 74