What is the default timeout duration for callouts or web service calls in Salesforce?

In Salesforce, the default timeout duration for callouts or web service calls is indeed 10 seconds. This timeout setting is crucial as it dictates how long Salesforce will wait for a response from an external web service before it terminates the callout due to inactivity or non-responsiveness. A 10-second timeout is generally appropriate for many integrations, balancing the need for relatively quick responses while allowing enough time for slower network conditions or backend processing.

When designing integrations, it's essential to consider this timeout behavior, as exceeding the limitation could result in errors or failed transactions in your applications. Understanding the default settings helps architects effectively plan for scenarios where longer processing times may be expected, prompting them to implement appropriate error handling, retry mechanisms, or to consider alternative architectural designs if necessary.

Being aware of this timeout is critical when working with external APIs, as it influences how systems communicate and ensures a resilient and responsive integration strategy that aligns with business needs.