REST is essentially a set of guidelines and architectural styles used for data transmission. It is commonly applied to web applications but can also be used to pass data to software systems.
What Exactly is the REST Architecture?
While it can be challenging to define REST architecture precisely, some architectural constants include:
- Consistency across the entire API
- Stateless existence (i.e., no server-side sessions)
- Use of HTTP status codes where appropriate
- Use of URL endpoints with a logical hierarchy
- Versioning in the URL rather than in HTTP headers
REST is a lightweight methodology, making it ideal for HTTP data transmission. This is why REST became so popular on the web and why it is widely regarded as the best choice for API development.
REST API vs RESTful API — What’s the Difference?
Imagine you’re building a food delivery app like Swiggy or Zomato.
Your mobile app (the client) needs to talk to the server (the kitchen) to place orders, check menus, and get updates.
To do that, they use something called an API—like a waiter who carries your message from the table to the kitchen and brings the food back.
What is a REST API?
Think of a REST API like a messenger who follows some rules to talk to the kitchen:
- It sends requests like “give me the menu” or “place an order.”
- But sometimes, the messages are unclear or not formatted well.
- For example:
Instead of saying “I want to see the menu for item 5,” it says,
POST /getMenuItem– which is like saying “DoGetMenuForMePlease” instead of simply saying “Show me item 5.”
So, it works, but it’s a bit messy.
What is a RESTful API?
Now imagine a very professional, disciplined waiter who:
- Always speaks clearly and consistently.
- Uses standard words like:
GET /menu/5→ “Get me item number 5”POST /orders→ “Place a new order”DELETE /orders/5→ “Cancel order 5”
- Doesn’t remember your past conversations (stateless).
- Is easy to understand and quick to follow instructions.
That’s a RESTful API—it follows all the rules of communication perfectly.
Conclusion
- A REST API just uses the basics of the system.
- A RESTful API follows all the rules properly—clean, clear, and professional.