Difference between API and Webhook.trigger

[ajay13chawda]

Hello Experts,
Can you help me to understand the difference between APIs and webhook triggers.

What kind of security cab be added if we use API and webhook as trigger.

[Prudvi]

Hi @ajay13chawda,
API - Its a collection of endpoints and 2way communication(can be also fire-and-forget).
Webhook - Its a single endpoint and only accepts request.

API - supports JSON WebToken, Oauth2
Webhook - None,Signature(https://docs.workato.com/developing-connectors/sdk/guides/building-triggers/securing-webhooks.html#s...

Regards,
Prudvi

[shivakumara]

Hi @ajay13chawda ,
Here is the simple explanation:

Feature / Aspect API (HTTP Connector/Workato API Platform) Webhook Trigger (Real-time trigger)

Definition	A method to expose endpoints which clients can call on demand	A mechanism where external apps send data to Workato via a webhook URL
Triggering Mechanism	Pull-based – Initiated by the client sending requests	Push-based – Triggered by external systems when an event occurs
Usage Scenario	Ideal for retrieving or sending data when requested	Ideal for real-time notifications from 3rd party systems
Endpoint Exposure	API endpoints are published on the Workato API platform	Webhook URL is provided by Workato
Rate Limiting / Throttling	Supported (on API platform) to prevent misuse or overload	Not directly supported, but can be managed via queueing strategies

 Webhook FAQ:
https://docs.workato.com/connectors/workato-webhooks/webhooks-faqs.html
Note:  Webhook Triggers in Workato don't provide advanced security like OAuth or built-in HMAC validation.

API Security:
We have an option to use 🔐 OAuth 2.0, Basic Auth, API Key, Custom Headers.
API Security: https://docs.workato.com/api-mgmt/securing-apis.html#api-clients-and-access-profiles

Thanks and Regards,
Shivakumara K A