For a script to control services on a server, which interface is typically used?

• A. SDK
• B. API
• C. CLI
• D. GUI

Answer: (B)

Programmatic control of a service relies on a programmable interface that can receive requests, perform actions, and return results. An API is designed for exactly this: it provides a stable, machine-readable contract that lets scripts start, stop, restart, and query the status of services, as well as configure behavior and handle errors. APIs can be accessed remotely, support authentication, and return structured data (like JSON or XML) that automation scripts can easily parse and use to drive workflows. That makes automation reliable, repeatable, and portable across environments.

While a CLI can be scripted, it relies on parsing human-readable text and may be less portable or robust across platforms. A GUI is meant for interactive use by humans, not automation. An SDK is a development toolkit for building applications, not the standard interface for direct service control from scripts in many automation scenarios.