APIs are the backbone of modern software. Whether you’re building a mobile app, SaaS platform, or microservices architecture, securing your API is non-negotiable. Here are 10 essential practices every developer should follow.
1. Always Use HTTPS
Never expose an API over plain HTTP. TLS encryption prevents man-in-the-middle attacks and protects data in transit.
2. Implement Proper Authentication
Use OAuth 2.0 or JWT tokens. Avoid passing credentials in query strings, and always validate tokens server-side.
3. Rate Limiting
Protect your endpoints from abuse and DDoS attacks by implementing rate limiting on all public-facing routes.
Following these practices from day one will save you from costly security incidents down the road.