If your company has recently designed a mobile application, you understand the amount of complexity the process involves. It is essentially a series of layers, all of which ensure full functionality, ease of use, and a working backend. Although overly complex, this is regarded as a common structure, but one that enlists the help of innovation to ensure it works—even without the internet. Such concerns call for application program interface (RESTful API) solutions, which allow developers to access the application or an external platform or service using a standardized interface. More often than not, certain processes require more API’s.
For this reason, the RESTful API was introduced. It offers specific features that make the methods a little different, particularly when it comes to the structure. Here, the client-server structures are completely independent of each other, as the backend service is now the server, whereas the front-end component is now the client.
The client is given all means to store the application’s responses within the cache, which improves the overall performance. Data is no longer stored on the server, thereby allowing users a better and smoother experience.
The question now stands—how do you ensure a RESTful API implementation? Here are three elements you need to ensure a successful implementation:
Every mobile application development requires a proper server, as this is where the specific application will fetch information from. For this reason, it’s important to choose not only a powerful one but the right one. Various cloud-based servers are available on the market, all of which feature various degrees of scalability and performance. When choosing one for your mobile application, however, it is best to keep the following factors in mind:
Apart from the server hosting, you’ll also want to consider data protection carefully. You’ll want to make sure that the integration of HTTPS and CA certificates can be done without a hitch, as anything less could end up compromising your application.
You’ll want to make use of authentication factors and social log-ins, both of which are validated by the people on the server. In doing so, you ensure security methods are in place, and any sensitive data be put into encryption.
Apart from the server and data protection elements, you’ll also want to keep storage in mind. Keep in mind that identification (ID) can be randomly generated, which allows resources to be secured in countless ways. Any potential attackers can be thwarted effectively, ultimately keeping your storage and database safe and sound.
The RESTful API may seem like a daunting addition to your mobile application design and development process, but a necessary one. You will want to keep the elements listed above in mind as you integrate, making sure that each of them is embedded into the system carefully. Planning also entails the help of your team, so foster constant collaboration among your developers on the client apps, as well as those working on the backend service. In doing so, you will be able to effectively jump over roadblocks while working with RESTful API’s.
If you wish to explore a wireless API for mobile apps, CELITECH has you covered. We offer you the opportunity to make use of powerful cellular data for your web and mobile applications, which allows your mobile customers to stay connected and better engage with your service. Check our API demo today.