URL: /baas/api/introduction

---
title: "API Service Model"
description: "Direct API integration for custom implementations"
---

# API Service Model

The API Service Model provides direct access to FinHub's APIs for building custom financial applications with complete control over the user experience.

## What is the API Service Model?

Unlike the CoreX Service Model which provides a pre-built front-end, the API Service Model gives you direct access to FinHub's RESTful APIs, allowing you to build your own custom user interface and integration.

## Key Benefits

- **Complete Control**: Build your own UI/UX
- **Flexible Integration**: Integrate into existing applications
- **Custom Workflows**: Implement unique business logic
- **Developer-Friendly**: Comprehensive documentation, SDKs, sandbox
- **Real-Time Events**: Webhooks for instant notifications

## API vs. CoreX

| Feature | API | CoreX |
|---------|-----|-------|
| Implementation Time | 4-12 weeks | 2-4 weeks |
| Development Effort | Significant | Minimal |
| UI/UX Control | Complete | Theme-based |
| Maintenance | Self-managed | Managed by FinHub |
| Cost Model | Usage-based | Subscription-based |

## What You Get

- **Full API Access**: All FinHub endpoints
- **Sandbox Environment**: Test safely
- **Documentation**: Comprehensive API reference
- **SDKs**: Libraries for popular languages
- **Webhooks**: Real-time event notifications
- **Admin Panel**: Tenant operations dashboard

## Client Journey

<Steps>
  <Step title="Registration">
    Apply on the FinHub Developer Portal
  </Step>
  <Step title="Sandbox Access">
    Get credentials and explore APIs
  </Step>
  <Step title="Development">
    Build your integration
  </Step>
  <Step title="Certification">
    Complete security and integration review
  </Step>
  <Step title="Production">
    Go live with phased rollout
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Next Steps

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Getting Started" icon="rocket" href="/baas/api/getting-started">
    Begin your API journey
  </Card>
  <Card title="Quick Start" icon="bolt" href="/baas/api/getting-started/quick-start">
    Make your first API call
  </Card>
  <Card title="Integration Guide" icon="plug" href="/baas/api/integration/flows">
    Complete integration flows
  </Card>
  <Card title="API Reference" icon="code" href="/baas/api/reference">
    Browse API documentation
  </Card>
</CardGroup>