REST API Explained
What is a REST API?
A REST API (Representational State Transfer Application Programming Interface) is a
way for computer programs to communicate over the internet using HTTP. REST is an
architectural style that relies on stateless, client-server communication and standard
HTTP methods.
Key Concepts
Resources: Data or services are represented as resources, each accessible via a
unique URL.
HTTP Methods: The main operations are:
GET: Retrieve data from the server.
POST: Send new data to the server.
PUT: Update existing data.
DELETE: Remove data.
Stateless: Each request from a client contains all the information needed; the
server does not store information about previous requests.
JSON/XML: Data is typically exchanged in JSON or XML format.
Example: REST API for a Book Store
Assume we have a REST API for managing books.
Endpoints
GET /books
Returns a list of all books.
GET /books/{id}
Returns details of a specific book.
POST /books
Adds a new book.
PUT /books/{id}
Updates information for a specific book.
DELETE /books/{id}
Deletes a book.
Example Request (GET)
GET /books/123
Host: api.bookstore.com
Accept: application/json
Response:
{
"id": 123,
"title": "Java Basics",
"author": "John Doe",
"year": 2020
}
Benefits of REST APIs
Simple and scalable.
Language-independent.
Uses standard HTTP methods.
Easily consumed by web, mobile, and desktop applications.
Summary
REST APIs are a popular way for applications to exchange data over the web. They rely
on standard HTTP methods, stateless communication, and represent resources with URLs,
