APIs create value through their ability to abstract at the application layer. For example, the use of an API to abstract access to internal systems and data provides a way to simplify and automate access to legacy IT systems. APIs are also the means by which integration into ecosystems—and with partners—is achieved. APIs are also the primary means of automation and orchestration today, which make them one of the keystone technologies of a successful digital transformation journey. Thus, APIs have become strategic to businesses as a source of innovation, efficient execution, and monetization.
Monetization
In a digital economy, everything that can generate revenue will eventually be monetized. That's especially true of APIs, and research indicates that the API economy is a strong one.
Integration
APIs have supplanted ESB and web-based portals as the primary means of business-to-business integration. The reliance on APIs as a strategic component to business success in the digital economy is well-documented.
o Over 60% agree, API Integration is critical to their business strategy. (State of API Integration 2018)
o More than 50% of all B2B collaboration will take place via API integration. (State of API Integration 2018)
o 51% cite ‘partnering with external organizations’ as a leading driver in their decision to develop APIs.
(State of the API 2019)
The reliance of business and modern application architectures like microservices on APIs makes them a particularly attractive target for attackers who understand the value of gaining access—or control—over these endpoints. This risk means more attention should be paid to the API layer, particularly on securing access to the business functions they represent.
Authentication is not Optional
Security for APIs starts with access. And that means authentication. Open APIs should not be a description of an API access model. It's an attribute that means the API is well documented and follows a standard. Invocation of APIs should always require authentication and, optimally, authorization.
There are several options available and before you choose you should make yourself aware of the capabilities and limitations of each.
API security can be implemented directly in an application or, better, in an API Gateway. An API gateway can further protect APIs with capabilities like rate limiting (to prevent accidental or intentional denial of service attacks) and authorization. Authorization narrows access to APIs by allowing access to specific API calls to only specified clients, usually identified by tokens or API keys. An API gateway can also limit the HTTP methods used and log attempts to abuse other methods so you're aware of attempted attacks.
Our reliance on applications means the APIs they rely on need protecting, too. If you haven't already started with the basics, it's time to get going. If you want to protect your business, you're going to need secure APIs.