Blog » » Client – What is Client (in API Terms)?
A client is primarily an application, such as a browser, that operates on a computer, mobile phone, or any other device. This computer application helps users to perform various operations, whether it is making a request or any other task. Users may make a call from the client-side when trying to access certain information or functionality without involving the server-side. This happens when the users want to monitor the operations or when the server lacks the power required to process and perform the tasks in due time.
Client-side refers to the operations and tasks that are performed by the client when it comes to the client-server relationship in the computer network.
What is an API Client?
An API client is a set of tools and protocols that operate from an application on a computer. They help you to bypass some operations when developing a web application rather than reinventing the wheel every time. Using a client API is a great way to speed up the development process. This is because it handles a variety of subtle details involved in making requests or monitoring responses. This helps developers and statisticians focus on vital issues such as writing codes and programs that are particular to your project.
An API client makes it easier for programmers to create web pages that function correctly on multiple browsers. It also allows you to keep the client and server in sync without the need to keep refreshing. When you have tasks that are best handled on the client-side, you need to use client APIs since browsers interpret them well.
While API clients were available in a few languages some years ago, more companies such as Zendesk have introduced API clients for various languages such as:
- Python
- Ruby
- Java
- NET
- PHP
- Elixir
- Node.js
Client-Side vs. Server-Side
In a nutshell, when something is on the server-side, we basically mean that it is or will be executed in the server or a remote machine. On the other hand, when something is said to be in the client-side, it means it is run on your computer application. When it comes to web development, client-side scripts and programs are embedded in the client’s web page and processed on the browser. On the other hand, when it comes to server-side processing, it takes place in the servers where permanent databases and files are stored.
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