2.2 Module 2 · Models, Tools & Protocols

APIs, SDKs & Managed Runtimes

Understand the four layers of the AI agent stack. See the same agent built three different ways and find the abstraction level that fits your needs.

Stack Layer Explorer Code Comparison Viewer OpenAI Agents SDK Google ADK

Stack Layer Explorer

Click each layer of the stack to see what it provides, its trade-offs, and which platforms sit at that level.

Select a layer above to explore

Maximum Control Maximum Convenience

Raw API: Full control, you handle everything

Code Comparison Viewer

The same research agent (searches the web, summarises results) built three ways. Switch tabs to compare the code at each abstraction level.

Key insight: Start at the highest abstraction that meets your requirements, then drop down only when you hit limits. Most teams never need the raw API layer.

Trade-Off Analyser

Rate your priorities and get a recommended abstraction layer.

Adjust the sliders above to see your recommendation.