Azure API Management vs ProgrammableWeb: What are the differences?

Introduction: Azure API Management and ProgrammableWeb are two platforms that offer API management solutions with their own unique features and functionalities.

1. Hosting Model: Azure API Management is a cloud-based API management platform provided by Microsoft, while ProgrammableWeb is a platform that aggregates and curates APIs from various service providers.

2. Integration Capabilities: Azure API Management provides rich integration capabilities with other Azure services and offers a comprehensive set of tools for API design, deployment, and monitoring. ProgrammableWeb, on the other hand, focuses on providing a directory of APIs for developers to discover and utilize in their applications.

3. Customization Options: Azure API Management allows users to customize and extend the functionality of APIs through policies and code, providing more flexibility in managing and securing APIs. ProgrammableWeb mainly focuses on showcasing APIs and does not offer extensive customization options for users.

4. Pricing Model: Azure API Management follows a subscription-based pricing model with tiered pricing plans based on usage and features. ProgrammableWeb, being a directory service, does not charge users for accessing or using the APIs listed on its platform.

5. Support and Documentation: Azure API Management offers extensive documentation, tutorials, and support from Microsoft for users to effectively utilize the platform. ProgrammableWeb provides information on APIs through its directory but does not offer direct support or documentation for implementing APIs.

6. Security Features: Azure API Management offers advanced security features such as OAuth support, API key management, and IP filtering to secure APIs. ProgrammableWeb focuses more on API discovery and does not provide robust security features like Azure API Management.

In Summary, Azure API Management and ProgrammableWeb differ in terms of hosting model, integration capabilities, customization options, pricing model, support and documentation, and security features.