# Introduction

## Summary

An overview of Dotkernel API, the Mezzio-based REST API at the root of the Dotkernel Headless Platform, and its PSR-compliant, standards-based architecture.

## Details

Dotkernel API is a REST API based on the Mezzio skeleton.
The API is the root of the Dotkernel Headless Platform.

Dotkernel API:

- Ensures that you build a cohesive system that contains an API-first backend with the same architecture and standards support as other Dotkernel tools and applications.
- Has a PSR-Compliant Middleware Stack to promote a lean, modular architecture and create a common ground between components from various sources.
- Implements [PSR-7](https://www.php-fig.org/psr/psr-7/) (HTTP message interfaces) and [PSR-15](https://www.php-fig.org/psr/psr-15/) (HTTP Server Request Handlers) as defined by the [PHP Framework Interop Group](https://www.php-fig.org/).

## FAQ

**Q: What is Dotkernel API built on?**

A: It's a REST API based on the Mezzio skeleton.

**Q: What role does Dotkernel API play in the Headless Platform?**

A: It is the root of the Dotkernel Headless Platform.

**Q: What standards does Dotkernel API implement?**

A: PSR-7 and PSR-15, as defined by the PHP Framework Interop Group (PHP-FIG).

## See also

- [Usage](usage.md) — how API fits alongside Admin and Queue.
- [Architecture Overview](../architecture.md) — how all the platform pieces fit together.