What's the difference between webhooks and APIs?

APIs are pull-based: you request data when you want it. Webhooks are push-based: data is sent to you when events happen. Webhooks are a type of API usage pattern.

How do I secure webhook endpoints?

Verify webhook signatures (most services sign payloads), use HTTPS, validate sender IP when possible, implement retry handling, and never trust payload data without validation.

What if my webhook endpoint is down?

Most services retry webhooks with exponential backoff. Check provider documentation for retry policies. Implement idempotency to handle duplicate deliveries safely.

How do I test webhooks locally?

Use tunneling services like ngrok or localtunnel to expose local endpoints. Many services also offer webhook testing tools to send sample payloads.

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Webhook

An HTTP callback that sends real-time data when events occur. Instead of polling for changes, systems push notifications to your endpoint automatically.

In-Depth Explanation

A webhook is an HTTP-based callback mechanism. When an event occurs in one system, it automatically sends data to a URL you specify - enabling real-time integration without polling.

How webhooks work:

You register a URL endpoint with a service
Event occurs in the service
Service sends HTTP POST to your URL
Your endpoint receives and processes the data
You return acknowledgment (2xx status)

Webhook characteristics:

Push-based: Data comes to you
Real-time: Immediate notification
Event-driven: Triggered by specific events
HTTP-based: Standard web protocols

Common webhook events:

Payment completed
Form submitted
Record created/updated
Status changed
File uploaded
Message received

Business Context

Webhooks enable real-time automation. Instead of checking "did payment complete?" every minute, you're notified instantly when it happens.

How Clever Ops Uses This

We implement webhook-based integrations for Australian businesses, enabling real-time responses to events across systems.

Example Use Case

"Stripe webhook notifies your system when payment succeeds, instantly triggering order fulfillment without any polling delay."

Frequently Asked Questions

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