Which of the following is an example of an Application Programming Interface (API)?

An Application Programming Interface (API) is a set of rules and protocols for building and interacting with software applications. The purpose of an API is to allow different software programs to communicate with one another, enabling them to share data and functionality seamlessly.

The Windows API, which is the correct choice, serves as a prime example because it provides developers with a standardized way to interact with the Windows operating system's functions. This API allows applications to perform tasks like accessing hardware components, managing files, or utilizing system resources without needing to know the intricate details of the underlying system architecture.

Other options presented do not fit the definition of an API in the same way. A web browser is a software application that enables users to access and interact with information on the internet but does not serve as a programming interface for other applications. A file compression tool is a utility for reducing the size of files, focusing on data manipulation rather than providing a communicative interface for software applications. A database management system (DBMS) manages databases but does not inherently function as an API unless it exposes methods for applications to interact with the databases through an API layer.

Thus, the Windows API stands out as a direct example of an API, illustrating its role in facilitating interaction and integration between software applications and