Setting Up API Integration:
1. Understanding REST and SOAP APIs:
REST API: Uses standard HTTP methods, lightweight and easy to use.
SOAP API: Uses XML-based messaging, robust and suited for complex integrations.
2. Configuring API Access in Salesforce:
Create a connected app in Salesforce.
Define the API permissions and scopes required.
Developing with APIs:
1. Making API Calls from Your App:
Use Apex HTTP classes for REST API calls.
Use Apex SOAP classes for SOAP API calls.
2. Handling API Responses:
Parse JSON responses using Apex JSONParser.
Handle XML responses with Apex DOM classes.
Security Best Practices:
1. Authenticating API Requests:
Use OAuth 2.0 for secure authentication.
Ensure API keys are stored securely and rotated regularly.
2. Managing API Keys and Secrets:
Avoid hard-coding API keys in your codebase.
Use Salesforce Named Credentials for secure storage.
Troubleshooting Common Issues:
1. Debugging API Integration Problems:
Use debug logs in the Salesforce Developer Console.
Check API request and response headers for errors.
2. Tips for Optimizing API Performance:
Implement caching for frequently accessed data.
Use bulk API operations for handling large data sets.
