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REST API (Representational State Transfer Application Programming Interface) is a software architecture style for interaction between components of a web system. REST uses standard protocols such as HTTP to transfer data between the client and the server. The main principles of REST include statelessness, caching, distributed systems, and others.
Statelessness
Each request from the client to the server must contain all the necessary information to understand and execute that request. The server should not store the client's state between requests. Each client request is treated independently, without dependence on previous requests.
Caching
REST systems can use caching mechanisms to store copies of resources on the client or intermediary server. This helps reduce the number of requests to the server and improve performance.
Distributed Systems
REST is designed for use in distributed systems (the Internet is an example of such a system). Resources can be located on different servers, and the client can access them using standard protocols such as HTTP.
Uniform Interface
In a REST system, the interface to each resource must be uniform. This means that there is a standard way to interact with each resource, regardless of how it is stored or processed on the server. Interaction with resources is carried out through a unified set of methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) and standard resource concepts.
Navigation and Interaction with Resources
REST also supports hypermedia, allowing the client to receive dynamic information about available actions and resources during interaction with the server.
The main actions performed on resources using the REST API are GET, POST, PUT, PATCH, DELETE.
Retrieving Resources (GET)
The client can use an HTTP GET request to retrieve information about a resource. For example, retrieving a list of users, article details, etc.
Creating Resources (POST)
This type of request is used to create a new resource. For example, adding a new user to the database.
Updating Resources (PUT or PATCH)
The client can use PUT or PATCH to update an existing resource. PUT completely replaces the resource, while PATCH only modifies part of the resource.
Deleting Resources (DELETE)
This type of request is used to delete a resource. For example, removing a user from the database.
