API security encompasses the strategies and measures employed to protect application programming interfaces (APIs) from unauthorized access, data breaches, and other malicious activities. APIs serve as the gateway for communication between different software components and external systems, often exposing sensitive data and functionality if not adequately secured.
Implementing robust API security controls is crucial for safeguarding applications and data. It ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of API resources, preventing unauthorized access to sensitive information and malicious attacks that could disrupt business operations. API security measures also help maintain regulatory compliance and build trust among users and stakeholders. Historically, APIs were less prevalent, but with the rise of cloud computing and microservices architectures, they have become ubiquitous, amplifying the need for robust security measures.