> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://dev.apirtc.com/apirtc-developer-portal/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://dev.apirtc.com/apirtc-developer-portal/overview.md).

# What is ApiRTC?

ApiRTC helps to quickly build communication applications, from simple video chat to rich media interaction.

ApiRTC is a platform that enables developers to easily add real-time video chat functionality to their applications using APIs and client-side SDKs.

It provides the necessary infrastructure for signaling, media processing, and media delivery to enable real-time communications based on the [WebRTC standard protocol](https://webrtc.org/). ApiRTC also offers global STUN/TURN relays, media services for one-to-one calls or large group conferences and recording, and the ability to customize, troubleshoot, and optimize video applications using a range of tools.

Media exchange can occur either directly peer-to-peer or through ApiRTC's servers, depending on the chosen Video Room type. Signaling is managed through ApiRTC's global infrastructure to facilitate the setup, control, and termination of RTC sessions.

## Where to start with ApiRTC?

* Get familiar with the [Key Concepts](/apirtc-developer-portal/overview/key-concepts.md)
* Read the [Video Communication LifeCycle](/apirtc-developer-portal/apirtc-js-library/video-communication-lifecycle.md) guide
* Play with the [Demo App & Resources](/apirtc-developer-portal/apirtc-js-library/demo-app-and-resources.md)

<figure><img src="https://226856024-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F9RTy6zMGBeXToEHSXgv7%2Fuploads%2FhYVOicSQYL0S7d0kQlag%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=f4334e55-98b2-4080-ad57-3f5a625b1bc0" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>
