WCF vs. Web API

Making the option of WCF vs. WEB API may seem like a difficult job. In terms of features and implementation methods, it is usual that these frameworks sometimes overlap one another. It goes without saying that in a long-term context, the final decision between those technologies would have a significant effect on the project. In this article, we will discuss key features, use cases, and the difference between WCF and Web API to help ensure that the technology chosen better fits your development needs. WCF WCF is the Windows Communication Foundation’s short form, and it’s essentially a system used to build distributed and interoperable applications. Through the dot Net 3.0 Framework, this framework came into the limelight. It is widely used for Service Oriented Architecture (SOA), renowned for efficient, stable, and transaction-oriented service building. For the creation of SOAP-based services and bindings, WCF uses standard XML over HTTP schema. This platform is suitable for, among others, items such as message queues, end-to-end message authentication, duplex communication, distributed transaction and one-way messaging. WCF lets you transfer data from one end to the other asynchronously. WEB API A Web API is an open-source platform for the development of Restful APIs over the dot NET framework. This is an authentic form of interface to build HTTP services that a wide variety of clients can use, including mobile devices, browsers, laptops, and iPhones. As the name suggests, a Web API is available via the HTTP protocol via the internet API. Web APIs were originally known as Web services, but the latter’s usage today suggests that the API is Restful, rather than following the SOAP pattern. Comparison Feature Web API WCF Protocol Based on the SOAP-based protocol Based on REST architecture State management Stateless Stateless with per call Content format It supports any media format including XML, JSON and many others Supports SOAP-based data formats + XML Caching method Built in to prefer application control The application handles the cache. Configuration Supports MVC features It supports extensive configuration Proxy support Doesn’t support client proxy initialization It supports client proxy initialization like Per Call, Single or per session based on the requirement. We at softieons technology work on website development, mobile app development, and digital marketing and help our customers according to their business requirements.