Business Central API – Setup and Use Standard APIs
Business Central API serves the same purpose as other APIs, which allows communication between two systems. It enables connection between Dynamics Business Central and other software applications to enhance efficiency, improve decision-making, and streamline operations.
The purpose of integration can differ, but the technology behind integration is the same: API. In this article, we will explore API Business Central, its setup process, types, and more.
What is an API in Business Central?
In Business Central, an API is a collection of procedures, tools, and protocols to create software applications that allow Business Central and other systems to communicate. Developers can automate processes and improve features without requiring human interaction by using APIs to access and connect Business Central data with third-party apps.
For instance, a Business Central REST API example might involve retrievd-Party Programing sales order data from Business Central and pushing it to an e-commerce platform like Shopify.
Exploring the Different API Versions in Business Central
As Business Central evolves, so do its APIs. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central initially started with a Beta API version in Dynamics NAV 2018, and today, API v2.0 is the standard. The different versions reflect improvements in security, performance, and functionality. Here’s a quick rundown of the versions:
Beta API (NAV 2018): Introduced as a preview and now deprecated.
API v1.0 (Business Central 14 and onwards): The first stable API version, though it's gradually being replaced by v2.0.
API v2.0 (Business Central 17 and onwards): This version comes with improved integration capabilities and system-managed fields like “Created By” and “Modified By,” eliminating the need for manual ID management.
It’s strongly recommended to use latest Business Central API, v2.0, as it offers the latest performance and security improvements. For a detailed comparison of API versions and their features, read Business Central API Documentation.
What is the Importance of APIs in Business Central?
In the Dynamics 365 Business Central ecosystem, APIs are essential for several reasons:
1. Integration with Third-Party Programs: Dynamics BC can easily integrate with other programs, including financial tools, e-commerce platforms, and CRM systems, thanks to APIs. A more cohesive strategy for overseeing corporate operations is the outcome of this merger.
2. Enhanced Efficiency: APIs facilitate the automation of data transfer across systems, which eliminates the need for human data entry, minimizes errors, and boosts operational efficiency.
3. Innovation and Customization: Developers can expand Business Central's capabilities and create unique applications using APIs. This guarantees that companies may drive innovation in their operations and customize the solutions to meet their specific demands.
4. Automate Tasks: Simplify processes by allowing D365 Business Central to automatically transfer data to other programs, like payment gateways, CRM systems, and e-commerce platforms.
5. Acquire Insights in Real-Time: Create dashboards and reports using the most recent data from Business Central to get a thorough picture of your company's performance.
How to Set Up APIs in Business Central
To effectively utilize APIs, it's essential to understand and configure the API setup Business Central.
Enabling API Services in PowerShell
Open the Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central Administration Shell to execute PowerShell commands related to server configuration. Use the cmdlet "Set-NAVServerConfiguration -ODataEnabled $true" to activate OData services, a prerequisite for enabling APIs.
Run the cmdlet "Set-NAVServerConfiguration -EnableApiServices $true" to enable API access specifically. After making changes, restart your D365 BC server to apply the new settings.
API Setup Page
To access and populate the integration tables with all available APIs, navigate to the API setup Business Central page by searching "API Setup." Click the "Integrate APIs" button on that page to populate the relevant tables with data for all accessible APIs, which may take a short time to complete.
Configure Endpoints
To correctly configure Business Central endpoints for external system communication, use the OData base URL in the format:
"https://
The default API service port is 7048, which needs to be opened in your firewall to enable communication with external systems. Remember to replace "
Testing the API
Use tools like Postman to test the API endpoints. This helps ensure that the APIs are correctly configured and accessible.
You can refer to Business Central API Documentation to know more about setup. You can also reach out to our consultants to get your doubts resolved.
What is the Business Central API List?
The Business Central API list includes various APIs that cater to different business functions. These APIs are categorized into standard and custom APIs.
Standard APIs: Business Central offers these unconventional APIs, which cover everyday business operations, including sales orders, clients, suppliers, products, and inventory.
Custom APIs: D365 BC enables you to establish custom APIs to access your data in a more customized manner if the regular APIs don't satisfy your requirements.
Furthermore, the most recent API version, v2.0, provides developers with more sophisticated functionality, including robust features and other endpoints to facilitate integration.
How To Use Standard APIs
The standard API, an in-built connector, is straightforward to use. You can visit Microsoft AppSource and search for the required connector. For instance, search for Shopify connector to initiate Business Central and Shopify integration. It will pop up with an interface about the connector, including its features and benefits. You need to click on “Get it now.”
However, specific prerequisites are necessary to initiate integration. You need to follow a few steps, and you are done with your integration. Now, you can exchange data without any hassle. Standards APIs are designed to make your life easier but have some limitations. Sometimes, it might not help you with your extensive and granular requirements.
Can You Extend Standard APIs?
Yes, in most cases, you can extend standard APIs by creating custom APIs. For example, you might need to expose additional business logic, retrieve additional fields, or integrate with a specific third-party application that Business Central doesn’t natively support. This is where custom API pages come in.
Custom API extensions can be built using AL code and integrated into Business Central. However, Microsoft's standard API pages are not extensible. Therefore, you should create separate custom API pages instead of modifying the base ones. This ensures better control and compatibility with future Business Central updates.
Best Practices for API Management in Business Central
When working with APIs in Business Central, consider these best practices:
1. Use the Latest Version: Always use API v2.0 for new integrations, as it has the most advanced features and optimizations.
2. Ensure Secure Authentication: Leverage OAuth for cloud-based setups and ensure your web service keys are appropriately managed for on-premise installations.
3. Test Thoroughly: Use tools like Postman or the VS Code REST Client to test your API calls and ensure they work correctly before going live.
4. Keep Customizations Separate: Avoid altering standard Business Central pages when building custom API solutions. Instead, create new custom API pages to maintain system integrity.
What Role Does Dynamics Square Play?
Dynamics Square is a trusted Microsoft Partner in Ontario with 14+ years of experience. Our expertise lies in implementing, customizing, and optimizing Dynamics 365 Business Central solutions. We help companies develop a custom API Business Central and resolve any unexpected error using standard API.
In addition, Dynamics helps you with
- Expert Consultation
- Implementation and Configuration
- Optimization and Upgrades
- Training and Support
People Also Ask:
What is an API in Business Central?
An API in Business Central is a set of protocols that allows external systems to interact with and retrieve data from Business Central, making integration and automation possible.
How do I connect to API in Business Central?
To connect to an API in Business Central, you must enable API services using PowerShell commands, configure the API endpoints, and use tools like Postman to test the connection. Ensure your firewall allows communication through the default API service port (7048).
How do I enable API in Business Central?
To enable APIs in Business Central, open the Business Central Administration Shell and run the following PowerShell commands:
`Set-NAVServerConfiguration -ODataEnabled $true`
`Set-NAVServerConfiguration -EnableApiServices $true`
After making these changes, restart your Business Central server to apply the settings.
Does Business Central have an open API?
Yes, Business Central offers open APIs, including REST APIs and SOAP Web Services, which allow developers to integrate with external systems and build custom solutions. You can explore the Business Central API list to check your required connector.
What is the difference between API v1.0 and API v2.0 in Business Central?
API v2.0 is the latest version and offers improvements over v1.0, including integration capabilities, system-managed fields, like “Created By” and “Modified By,” enhanced performance, and updated authentication methods. It is recommended that API v2.0 be used for new integrations.
You can refer to Business Central API Documentation to learn the technicalities of these API and identify the differences at the granular level.
Randhir is a Content Expert at Dynamics Square. He enjoys crafting content that simplifies intricate technical concepts into easy-to-understand, jargon-free material. His goal is to provide readers with comprehensive and up-to-date information. In order to improve the caliber of his work, he is also constantly keen to learn new approaches and is passionate about experimenting with different styles of writing.
