A Data API is a set of rules that defines how applications, such as MCP servers, can request and access specific datasets or services.
A data API establishes guidelines and protocols for software applications to request, retrieve, and interact with specific datasets or data services. In AI applications, a data API often functions as the backend data source that services, like an MCP server or a universal AI adapter, utilize to access, filter, or manipulate data before delivering it to an LLM for processing.
In essence, an API is the interface that enables applications to share pre-defined instructions and code. While the term API encompasses any interface facilitating software communication, a data API is focused primarily on managing, retrieving, and exchanging structured data.
Learn more: For an in-depth understanding of data APIs and their role in driving modern enterprise workflows—from powering advanced intelligence dashboards to automating routine tasks—check out our guide to data APIs.