Understanding Salesforce APIs: REST vs. SOAP and When to Use Them

Salesforce is a powerful CRM platform that helps businesses manage customer relationships, automate processes, and analyze data. But to connect Salesforce with other applications—like a website, mobile app, or another software system—we need something called an API (Application Programming Interface).

APIs act as a bridge between Salesforce and external systems, allowing them to exchange data and work together. There are two primary APIs in Salesforce:

• REST API (Representational State Transfer)
• SOAP API (Simple Object Access Protocol)

Each of these APIs has a unique way of communicating with Salesforce. Think of REST API as a text message conversation and SOAP API as a formal letter exchange—both get the job done but in different ways.

Let’s break it down in a simple way so you can understand when to use REST vs. SOAP APIs in Salesforce.

What is REST API?

REST API is like a simple and fast way of sending and receiving information over the internet. It follows a standard set of rules that make it easy to use.

Key Features of REST API:

1. Lightweight and Fast – Works well with mobile apps and web applications.
2. Uses HTTP Methods – GET (read), POST (create), PUT (update), DELETE (remove).
3. Data is in JSON Format – A format that is easy to read and process.
4. Best for Real-Time Data Exchange – Ideal for apps that need quick responses.
5. Stateless – Each request is independent, meaning the server doesn’t remember past interactions.

Example of REST API in Action:

Imagine you have a mobile app that needs to pull customer details from Salesforce. The app can send a GET request to the Salesforce REST API, and Salesforce will respond with the requested data in JSON format.

When to Use REST API in Salesforce?

• When you need real-time data access for mobile and web apps.
• When working with lightweight applications that need fast responses.
• When you need simple and quick integrations with third-party apps.

What is SOAP API?

SOAP API is like a more structured and secure way of communicating with Salesforce. It follows a strict protocol and requires more setup than REST.

Key Features of SOAP API:

1. Highly Secure – Uses XML and supports authentication with encryption.
2. Works Well with Large Data Sets – Best for complex transactions.
3. Follows a Strict Format – Uses WSDL (Web Services Description Language) for defining requests.
4. Stateful or Stateless – Can maintain a connection between requests if needed.
5. Used for Enterprise Applications – Common in banking, healthcare, and finance.

Example of SOAP API in Action:

A large financial institution needs to sync its customer database with Salesforce. Because security is a top priority, the system uses SOAP API, which encrypts all data transactions.

When to Use SOAP API in Salesforce?

• When security is a major concern (e.g., banking, healthcare).
• When handling complex integrations that require strict rules.
• When dealing with large amounts of structured data.

Conclusion: Which API Should You Use?

The choice between REST and SOAP API depends on what your project needs:

• If you want fast and simple communication, go for REST API.
• If you need security and structured transactions, SOAP API is the better choice.
• If your application is a mobile app or a website, REST API is the way to go.
• If your organization requires high security and complex data transactions, SOAP API is the right fit.

No matter which API you choose, Salesforce integration can streamline your business processes, improve efficiency, and enhance data connectivity.

Need Help with Salesforce Integration?

Not sure which API is right for your business? Our Salesforce integration services can help you seamlessly connect Salesforce with your applications, ensuring smooth and secure data flow.