API (Application Programming Interface) allows different systems and devices to exchange data and perform joint tasks. However, such integration carries security risks, especially if the data is transferred over the Internet. In this article, we will analyze how to effectively organize machine to machine communication via API and what security measures should be taken to protect information.
1. What is API and how is it used
API is an interface that defines the rules of interaction between software systems. The main purpose of API is to provide access to the functions and data of one application for use by others.
Examples of API use:
- Synchronization of data between CRM and accounting systems.
- Connecting third-party payment services (for example, Stripe or PayPal).
- Interaction of IoT devices in a smart home.
- Data exchange between different microservices in distributed systems.
2. Types of API and how to use them
2.1 REST API
The most popular type of API, which uses the HTTP/HTTPS protocol to transfer data in JSON or XML format.
2.2 GraphQL
Allows clients to request only the data they need, reducing network load.
2.3 WebSocket API
Used for real-time two-way communication, such as chat rooms or trading platforms.
3. Security Threats When Working with APIs
If configured incorrectly, the API becomes vulnerable to attacks such as:
- Data interception (if the transmission is not encrypted).
- Man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks.
- DDoS attacks: an attacker overloads the API with many requests.
- Injections (SQL/Code Injection): exploiting vulnerabilities in requests to execute malicious code.
4. Basic Security Measures
4.1 Using HTTPS
All requests must be transmitted over HTTPS, which encrypts data and protects it from interception.
4.2 Authentication and Authorization
- API keys: Allow clients to identify themselves with each request.
- OAuth 2.0: Allows third parties to access the API without sharing passwords.
- JWT (JSON Web Tokens): Simplifies authentication with tokens that contain user data and permissions.
4.3 Access Restriction and Request Filtering
- CORS (Cross-Origin Resource Sharing): Allows API access only from trusted domains.
- Rate Limiting: Limits the number of requests over a certain period to prevent DDoS attacks.
- IP Whitelisting: Allows access only from certain IP addresses.
4.4 Storage-Level Data Encryption
Use AES-256 to encrypt data stored in the database.
4.5 Data Anonymization and Masking
Especially important for protecting personal data. For example, when transmitting bank card numbers, use only the last four digits.
5. Practical connection of computers via API
5.1 Example of integration of two applications
Let’s say you want to connect an accounting system and a CRM to automatically transfer payment data.
- Authentication: Using OAuth, the accounting system gains access to the CRM.
- Sending a request: Each new payment event is sent via a POST request to the CRM.
- API response: The CRM confirms that the data has been successfully received.
6. Monitoring and auditing the API
To ensure security, it is important to monitor all interactions with the API:
- Logging: Record all requests and their results.
- Anomaly monitoring: Set up alerts for suspicious activity (for example, a large number of requests in a short period of time).
- SIEM systems: They help analyze logs and identify threats in real time.
7. Tools for working with API
- Swagger / OpenAPI – for documenting the API.
- Postman – for testing requests.
- NGINX or API Gateway – for routing and protecting the API from attacks.
- Cloudflare — for protection against DDoS attacks.
Using API
Modern Computer Repair Service companies actively use API to automate processes and improve customer interactions. Through API, you can integrate the service with CRM systems to track requests, online invoicing platforms, and cloud storage to access repair data. This approach reduces the number of manual operations, reduces service time, and increases process transparency. To protect customer personal data and prevent unauthorized access, it is important to use HTTPS, authentication using API keys, and control API access through IP restrictions.
Conclusion:
Connecting computers via API is a powerful tool for automation and integration of various systems. However, this approach requires careful security control at every stage: from data encryption to authentication settings and activity monitoring. Using the methods and tools proposed in the article, you can create a reliable and secure infrastructure for data exchange.
If you are just starting to work with APIs or want to improve security in an existing system, following these recommendations will be a good start.
