Payload

What is it?

The payload in API is a data pack that is sent to a server when one makes an API request. While an API, or an application programming interface, is a way programs communicate with each other, the API request is a message transported to the server, asking the API for some service or information. 

In this context, the payload is essential information sent to or received from the server and needed for the system to take action. On the contrary, the other data section, called overhead, only indicates the source and destination of transmitted info and becomes unviewable as soon as the message arrives.

How does it work?

For example, one intends to transport the message “Tektelic”, which is labeled as “companyName.” In this case, “Tektelic” is the payload, while “companyName” serves as the overhead, so it is involved exclusively in the transmission process to identify the data being sent. Once the information reaches its destination, “Tektelic” is the sole data block that remains viewable.