An endpoint is any device that connects to a computer network. Endpoints can be physical devices such as computers, laptops, printers, phones, and tablets, or virtual endpoints such as cloud services, web-based applications, and other network-accessible resources. Internet-of-Things devices like cameras, lighting, refrigerators, security systems, smart speakers, and thermostats are also considered endpoints. Endpoints represent key vulnerable points of entry for cybercriminals, and endpoint security is an approach to the protection of computer networks that are remotely bridged to client devices. Endpoint security uses a range of processes, services, and solutions to protect endpoints from cyber threats.

In the context of APIs, an endpoint is one end of a communication channel. When an API interacts with another system, the touchpoints of this communication are considered endpoints. For APIs, an endpoint can include a URL of a server or service. Each endpoint is the location from which APIs can access the resources they need to carry out their function.