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What are Webhooks Used For?
Webhooks simplify communication between two applications and can be used for diverse functions such as automating Infrastructure-as-Code (IaC) workflows and enabling GitOps practices.
Examples of Webhooks
Examples of webhooks include automatically uploading Instagram photos to Twitter accounts, sending GitHub update notifications to Slack channels, or triggering lights inside a home when a connected doorbell rings.
Webhooks vs APIs
While APIs require manual requests to pull or modify data, webhooks automatically send data in response to specific events. Webhooks are a subset of APIs, limited to sending information only.
Difference Between a Hook and a Webhook
A hook extends software functionality, while a webhook is specifically designed for web-based, event-driven communication between systems, often eliminating the need for polling in favor of a publisher-subscriber model.
Webhooks for Dummies
A webhook is an HTTP request that is automatically triggered by an event in a source system and sent to a destination system, usually with a payload of data. They are fully automated, making them efficient for real-time data transfer.
Why Not to Use Webhooks?
Webhooks have limited use cases and may not be essential for your application, particularly if you do not require third-party integrations. Their usage is often specific and restrictive.
Disadvantages of Webhooks
Webhooks can be unreliable and insecure, dependent on the availability of both the publisher and the subscriber. They may fail, be delayed, or be intercepted if either party is offline or compromised.
Is REST a Webhook?
REST APIs are request-driven and initiated by specific client requests. In contrast, webhooks are event-driven, triggered by specific actions or events in a web application.
Is a Webhook Just a URL?
A webhook is more than just a URL; it's an automated message triggered by specific events and sent to a unique URL. Unlike APIs, webhooks follow a push model, making them faster and requiring less work.
Is Webhook Push or Pull?
Webhooks use a push model where the source application initiates communication and sends data to the target application. This is opposite to APIs, which use a pull model where data is fetched upon request.