What it is
A webhook is an HTTP POST request sent automatically from one system to another when a specific event occurs. Instead of constantly polling an API to check for changes, webhooks push data to you in real time. In Salesforce, outbound messages and platform events serve similar purposes.
Why it matters
Webhooks enable real-time integrations without polling overhead. When a payment processes in Stripe, a form submits on your website, or a ticket updates in an external system, a webhook can instantly trigger actions in Salesforce — including invoking Agentforce agents.
Key components
- HTTP POST callback
- Event payload
- Signature validation
- Retry logic
- Idempotency
How it connects
Salesforce can receive webhooks via REST API endpoints, Platform Events, or custom Apex REST classes. External systems use webhooks to push data into Salesforce in real time.
Good to know
Always validate webhook signatures to prevent spoofing. Implement idempotency — webhooks can fire multiple times for the same event, and your handler should be safe to re-run.
Related terms
A2A (Agent-to-Agent Protocol)
Google's open protocol that allows AI agents from different vendors to communicate and collaborate with each other.
MCP (Model Context Protocol)
Anthropic's open standard for connecting AI models to external data sources and tools. Think of it as a universal adapter for AI.
