API v2 represents our latest evolution, designed to help you integrate more reliably and securely. It builds on the foundation of our original API while addressing existing challenges and enhancing your overall experience—whether you're a developer, a customer, or a partner. Here's a user-friendly overview of what API v2 offers, how it improves on API v1, and some useful migration tips.
Why API v2?
Over time, increased usage and more complex use cases revealed certain limitations in API v1. API v2 is built to overcome these hurdles and deliver a smoother, more robust experience. Key improvements include:
Improved Reliability and Performance:
API v2 introduces rate limiting and a consistent pagination strategy to help prevent overload and ensure that every user gets fair access. This means your applications can run more smoothly, even during heavy use.
Enhanced Security:
We've added more granular security scopes to control access across endpoints better. This extra layer of protection means you can trust the system more.
Streamlined Data Management:
With updates like improved filtering and query controls, API v2 makes retrieving only the data you need easier and ensures faster response times.
Key Advantages at a Glance
Balanced usage:
Rate limiting for read and write operations keeps the system stable and ensures fair access for all users, even when many requests are made.
Efficient data retrieval:
A modern pagination model means retrieving data is more predictable and efficient, preventing overload while delivering the needed information.
Stronger security controls:
Granular security scopes mean endpoints are better protected, safeguarding your data and the integrity of your applications.
Simplified experience:
Although the API now includes some built-in controls, its external interface remains familiar to users of API v1. The endpoints and data formats are nearly identical, so you won't have to start from scratch.
How API v2 Compares to API v1
API v2 addresses several pain points that some users experienced with the earlier version:
Handling heavy traffic:
API v2 uses rate limits to prevent API abuses and performance issues. This change aims to keep the API responsive and reduce downtime.
More predictable pagination:
The previous version lacked a consistent method for handling large data sets. With API v2, pagination is straightforward, helping you easily navigate large datasets.
Improved security:
By implementing more precise security scopes, API v2 minimizes risks and ensures that only the necessary data is accessible to the right users.
Migration Tips and FAQs
As you transition from API v1 to API v2, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Review the High-Level Changes:
While the endpoints and basic functionality remain similar, note the new rate limits, pagination defaults, and security requirements. These measures help maintain performance and security with increased usage.
Take Advantage of Our Migration Resources:
We've prepared a comprehensive migration guide (coming soon) that provides step-by-step instructions for updating your integrations and navigating any backward incompatibilities.
Test Your Integration:
You can use our sandbox or staging environments to ensure that your current integrations work smoothly with API v2. It's also a good idea to run through a few typical use cases and confirm that data retrieval and security checks are working as expected.
Stay Informed:
Keep an eye out for any updates in our documentation. As we continue to refine the API, additional tweaks may enhance your experience.
FAQs: OfficeRnD API v2
Where can I find detailed technical information?
For a deeper dive into the technical aspects of API v2, please refer to our detailed migration guide (coming soon).
Will API v2 break my existing integrations?
No. API v2 is designed to maintain the same endpoints and data structures as API v1, with added controls for improved performance and security.
Do I have to reconnect our operators using new keys?
No, you can use the existing application clients (keys). However, they must update those and add new API scopes.
Are there any features from API v1 that have been removed from API v2?
Yes, some less efficient filtering options and the $populate feature have been removed to improve performance and security. Details and alternatives are covered in the migration guide (coming soon).
Are there any feature changes I need to know from API v1?
While the endpoints and basic data structures remain largely the same, some features, like the $populate function, have been removed to enhance performance and security. We've made these changes to ensure that every endpoint performs predictably under load. Specific details about what has changed can be found in the full migration guide (coming soon).
How do I handle changes in filtering options?
API v2 focuses on supporting filters backed by indexed fields. If you previously used filters that are now no longer available (such as the more resource-intensive options), please refer to our migration guide (coming soon) for recommended workarounds or client-side filtering options. This approach ensures that your queries remain fast and reliable.
What are the new pagination rules?
In API v2, pagination has been standardized to support a default and maximum limit of 50 items per request. Cursor-based pagination is now the norm, enabling smooth navigation through large datasets without the performance overhead seen in API v1.
What happens if I reach a rate limit during operation?
API v2 implements distinct rate limits for read and write operations. If you exceed the rate limit, you will receive a clear error message indicating the limit breach. For ongoing business needs that require higher limits, you can submit a request for an exception. Our support team is on hand to help evaluate such cases.
Can I combine multiple filtering or sorting criteria in a single request?
API v2 is designed to enforce simplicity and predictability. Compound sorting (sorting by more than one field) is not supported for sorting. For filtering, you should use combinations that adhere to the new guidelines (for example, avoid mixing certain comparison operators). Detailed instructions on filter rules are provided in the migration guide (coming soon).
Is the data format different in API v2?
The overall data structure remains consistent with API v1. However, API v2 uses standardized serialization approaches, such as ISO 8601 for dates and strict boolean parsing. This helps eliminate ambiguities and ensures smooth integration with different client systems.
What should I do if I receive error messages that seem unfamiliar?
API v2 comes with improved error messages that aim to be clear and descriptive. If you receive an error, please check whether it relates to rate limits, filtering constraints, or unsupported fields. Our migration guide (coming soon) includes examples of common error responses and recommended actions, but please feel free to contact our support team if you need any more help.