What is API and FTP?

API and FTP

While it seems like API and FTP are unique from each other, they in-fact are complementary recourses. API is a way to process data while FTP is a way to transfer data.  Here is more detail on the two processes:

Application program interface (API)

API is a set of routines, protocols, and tools for building software applications.  API specifies how different Softwares should interact with each other, they are also used when programming different task components. APIs can be used for different purposes throughout various operating systems, applications, or websites. Basically, API can be seen as the pieces that put together a giant puzzle.  In this case, the giant puzzle is the task you are hoping to fulfill, like a monthly phone append, while the pieces are the steps that get you to the end result of the task. One of the many benefits of having an API set up is that files are sent back at a quicker rate and with less chance of human error.

File Transfer Protocol (FTP)

FTP is used to transfer files between computers on a network.  You can use this batch to exchange files between computer accounts, an account, and a desktop computer, or access online software archives. In simpler words, FTP is a batch that allows you and others, to login to it in order to transfer files back and forth.  If you have larger files that cannot be sent through standard email, this is a useful service.  Also using FTP helps to initiate and prolong automatic jobs with a faster response time. Anyone who does not have the username or password to login cannot gain access.

Your FreeNCOA.com Processing Team

Tags: API, API and FTP, automatic job, data processing, FTP, Phone Append, transfer files

Data Appending, data processing