Mist provides a REST-based API framework that allows users to interact with the platform programmatically. Since the Mist platform is API-driven, most actions that can be performed through the Mist Portal can also be performed through APIs. This enables organizations to automate operational tasks, simplify large-scale deployments, integrate with third-party systems, retrieve performance and inventory data, and manage network resources more efficiently.
The APIs follow standard REST principles and use common HTTP methods such as GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE. Data is exchanged using JSON format, making the APIs easy to consume from tools such as Postman, Python scripts, automation platforms, monitoring systems, CI/CD pipelines, and ITSM solutions.
The Mist API Reference portal provides complete API documentation, request examples, response samples, authentication guidance, and an interactive testing interface that allows users to validate API behavior before implementing automation workflows.
Prerequisites
Before making API calls, ensure you have:
• Access to the Mist organization
• A valid API Token
• Knowledge of the correct Mist Cloud region (API Endpoint)
• The required identifiers such as Organization ID, Site ID, or Device ID depending on the API being used.
API Structure
A typical API request follows the format:
https://<api-host>/api/v1/<resource>
Examples of common operations:
• Retrieving organization information
• Listing sites
• Viewing device inventory
• Collecting operational statistics
• Updating configurations
• Creating or deleting resources
HTTP Methods
GET
Used to retrieve information from the platform. This is the most commonly used method for viewing data such as organizations, sites, devices, statistics, configurations, and inventory.
POST
Used to create new objects or resources within the platform.
PUT
Used to update existing configurations or settings. It is recommended to retrieve the current configuration before making modifications to avoid unintended changes.
DELETE
Used to remove an existing resource from the platform.
Authentication
Every API request must be authenticated. The recommended authentication method is an API Token.
Example headers:
Authorization: Token <API_TOKEN>
Content-Type: application/json
These headers identify the user making the request and ensure that the request is authorized to access the specified resources.
Using the Mist API Reference
The Mist API Reference is the recommended tool for learning, testing, and validating APIs before building automation solutions.
Workflow:
1. Open the Mist API Reference portal.
2. Search for the required API endpoint.
3. Expand the Authentication section and enter the API token using the format:
Token <API_TOKEN>
4. Select the appropriate API region from the Configure option.
5. Click "Try It Out" to execute the request.
6. Review the request details, response code, and returned JSON payload.
7. Use the validated API call within automation scripts or operational workflows.
Best Practices
• Use API Tokens instead of username/password authentication.
• Validate API behavior using the API Reference before implementing automation.
• Use GET requests to understand existing configurations before making changes.
• Verify that requests are being sent to the correct Mist Cloud region.
• Review JSON payloads carefully before executing POST or PUT operations.
• Confirm configuration changes by performing a follow-up GET request after updates.
The Mist REST API provides a standardized and scalable method to access platform data and perform administrative actions programmatically. By understanding API structure, authentication requirements, HTTP methods, and the API Reference testing tools, users can efficiently develop automation workflows, integrate external systems, and manage their Mist environment with greater speed and consistency.