GraphQL

GraphQL is a query language for APIs and a runtime for fulfilling those queries with your existing data.

GraphQL is a query language for your API, and a server-side runtime for executing queries using a type system you define for your data. GraphQL isn’t tied to any specific database or storage engine and is instead backed by your existing code and data.

A GraphQL service is created by defining types and fields on those types, then providing functions for each field on each type.

GraphQL is designed to make APIs fast, flexible, and developer-friendly. It can even be deployed within an integrated development environment (IDE) known as GraphiQL. As an alternative to REST, GraphQL lets developers construct requests that pull data from multiple data sources in a single API call. 

Additionally, GraphQL gives API maintainers the flexibility to add or deprecate fields without impacting existing queries. Developers can build APIs with whatever methods they prefer, and the GraphQL specification will ensure they function in predictable ways to clients.

Advantages and disadvantages of GraphQL in corporate environments

Thinking about trying GraphQL in a business or enterprise environment? It comes with both pros and cons.

Advantages

• A GraphQL schema sets a single source of truth in a GraphQL application. It offers an organization a way to federate its entire API.
• GraphQL calls are handled in a single round trip. Clients get what they request with no overfetching.
• Strongly defined data types reduce miscommunication between the client and the server. 
• GraphQL is introspective. A client can request a list of data types available. This is ideal for auto-generating documentation.
• GraphQL allows an application API to evolve without breaking existing queries.
• Many open source GraphQL extensions are available to offer features not available with REST APIs.
• GraphQL does not dictate a specific application architecture. It can be introduced on top of an existing REST API and can work with existing API management tools.