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Definition:Webhook

A Webhook is an HTTP callback event trigger that automatically pushes real-time data payloads from a source platform to a receiver URL.

Detailed Technical Explanation

Webhooks reverse traditional API polling. When an event occurs (e.g., payment processed, attendance logged), the source server immediately sends an HTTP POST payload to the receiver endpoint.

Business Perspective

Webhooks enable real-time operational automation between separate software systems without constantly polling APIs.

Technical Perspective

Webhook receiver endpoints must verify cryptographic signatures (HMAC) and return 200 OK responses quickly to prevent retries.

Real-World Example

Stripe sending a `payment_intent.succeeded` webhook event to automatically unlock a customer's software account.

Common Architectural Mistakes

  • Synchronous Heavy Processing: Performing heavy database computations inside the webhook handler instead of queueing background workers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How to secure webhooks?

Verify the incoming HMAC header signature using a shared secret key before processing the payload.

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