In the field of programming and software development, two common concepts are the API (Application Programming Interface) and the Webhook. Although they are often used to integrate and communicate between different systems and applications, they operate in distinct ways and serve different purposes.
Stract offers the option to use native API connectors, such as those from Facebook Ads and Facebook Insights, as well as Webhooks.
To decide when to use each, it’s essential to understand their differences.
An API consists of a set of rules and protocols that facilitate communication between different software applications. It allows one application to access resources or data from another, but always through a specific request, called a Query. For example, Stract uses the Facebook Ads API to collect campaign performance data on specific dates. This interaction requires the requesting application, such as Stract, to make a detailed request to access the data, specifying fields, dates, and necessary authorizations.
Unlike an API, a Webhook functions as a “push” mechanism. It automatically sends information to another system when a specific event occurs, without the need for an active request, as with APIs.
For instance, the Hotmart webhook will automatically send data after each new approved purchase. This saves resources by eliminating the need for constant checks or creating queries for such extractions. However, unlike APIs, Webhooks follow a standard format and do not allow customization of the fields sent.
The primary difference between an API and a Webhook lies in how data is exchanged:
The choice between an API and a Webhook depends on the context:
Additionally, APIs have limitations, such as request limits on some platforms, like RD Station’s request limits.
Webhooks, on the other hand, are not retroactive, only sending data after configuration. APIs can request data from previous periods, depending on the availability of each platform.
With Stract, it’s possible to schedule API extractions and use Webhooks to create specific databases, such as leads in RD and approved purchases in Hotmart, increasing flexibility in analyses.
