Without API keys, it would be possible to crash any API server with an influx of malicious requests. Requests you make to an API include your API key so the API knows it’s you making the request.ĪPI keys also help regulate the number of calls the API receives at any given time and prevent attacks. APIs distribute keys to users in order to track how the API is being used.
How to Get Your Google Maps API KeyĪn API key is a unique code associated with your project. So, how do you actually access Google Maps APIs? The first step is to sign up and get an API key. When you register to use the API, you’ll have access to all of these APIs, plus other tools for developers. You probably won’t utilize every Google Maps API on your website, but you may need several API integrations depending on what functions you’re looking for. There’s a Maps Static API for simple Google Map embeds, a Maps JavaScript API for interactive and customizable maps, a Places API to access data about points of interest, and a Directions API to provide routes to a location, to name just a few. If you want to incorporate customized Google Maps on your website or application, you can use a Google Maps API.Ĭurrently, the Google Maps Platform offers multiple APIs for different aspects of its service. There are virtually endless ways to incorporate maps into your site and a lot to unpack, so let’s start with the basics: What is a Google Maps API, and how do you get started?Ī Google Maps API is an API (short for "application programming interface") that allows developers to access Google Maps data and functionality for their own projects. Google Maps data also refreshes in real-time, meaning that maps you create with Google API will always be up-to-date for visitors.
A delivery or ridesharing service might use Google Maps to show driver routes. If you’re a travel site, you can leverage maps to help users create itineraries. With a Google Maps API, you can display interactive maps and customize them how you want on your website. However, the functionality of Google Maps goes well beyond its mobile app - if you run a business website or app and want to include location displays in any way, Google Maps offers developer APIs that grant access to Google’s plethora of geographic data.
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