API Fallback Mechanisms

2.1 Definitions

• API (Application Programming Interface): A set of protocols that allow different software components to communicate.
• Fallback Mechanism: A predefined procedure that activates when the primary API fails, enabling the system to continue functioning.
• Graceful Degradation: The ability of a system to maintain limited functionality in the event of a failure.

2.2 Types of Fallback Mechanisms

• Static Fallback: Use of static data when the API is down.
• Alternative API: Switching to a secondary API that provides similar functionality.
• Cached Responses: Utilizing previously cached data to respond to requests.

3.1 Step-by-Step Process

1. Identify critical API endpoints.
2. Determine fallback strategies for each endpoint.
3. Implement error handling in your API request logic.
4. Provide a way to switch between primary and backup methods.
5. Monitor API performance and log errors for analysis.
            

3.2 Example Code Implementation

async function fetchData(url) {
    try {
        const response = await fetch(url);
        if (!response.ok) throw new Error('API response not OK');
        return await response.json();
    } catch (error) {
        console.warn('Primary API failed, trying fallback...');
        return await fetchFallbackData();
    }
}

async function fetchFallbackData() {
    // Fallback logic, e.g., static data or alternative API
    return { data: 'Fallback data' };
}