A framework or software framework is a platform for developing software applications. API framework is a foundation on which software developer can build applications for a specific platform.

Example: A framework can include predefined classes and functions that can be used to process input, manage hardware devices and interact with system software.

Framework is similar to an Application Programming Interface, technically framework includes API. Framework serves foundation for programming while API provides access to the elements supported by the framework. Framework also includes code libraries, compiler and other programs used in the software development process.

API framework is defined by configuration file which consists the list of all APIs that is required to be activated and activated for a particular program run.