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API Rest: What is it and how to use it?

To begin with, before explaining what a Rest API is and how to use it, it is necessary to know what API means: 

An API or Application Programming Interface is the set of protocols, definitions, constraints... that are used for the design and integration of application software.

In order to develop a web application, it is necessary that both the back-end and the front-end of the computer are connected, to facilitate the exchange of data or the execution of functions, among other actions.

So what is Rest from "API Rest"? Continue reading this article and we'll explain it all to you:

Rest: definition

First of all, "Rest" refers to "Representational State Transfer", a concept developed in 2000 by Roy Fielding, the creator of the HTTP specification. 

Thus, "Rest" is not a software architecture style as such; rather, it defines the constraints that must be taken into account in a software architecture, if we want to create a web application with HTTP.

These restrictions will obviously be present in the development of the API Rest calls and, in order to implement them, it will be necessary to have the main HTTP methods:

  • GET: Access and consultation of information on the resource.
  • POST: Creation of a new resource.
  • PUT: Updating the existing resource.
  • DELETE: Elimination of the given resource.
  • PATCH: Modification of an attribute of the resource.

Constraints on the architecture of Rest API services

In general terms, the constraints necessary for a Rest architecture are as follows:

  • Client-server: The applications on the server and for the client are separated. Thus, client and server are loosely coupled. This means that the client does not need to know the implementation details of the server and the server is indifferent as to how the client will use the data.
  • No status: When each request received by the server is independent and therefore capable of being processed. 
  • Caché: It is necessary to have a caching system. Caching will prevent repeated connections to request the same resource.
  • Uniform interface: An interface is uniform when each resource of the Rest service needs a unique URL.

So what is an API Rest and what is it for?

A Rest API (or Restful API) is the type of application programming interface that adapts to the constraints of the Rest architecture and therefore allows the interaction of Restful services.

It should also be noted that there are 3 types of API Rest: 

  • Private: Those intended solely for businesses or specific software.
  • Semi-open: They are also known as partner APIs. These are those in which several software packages are integrated, where both the company and its business partners have access.
  • Open: They are freely accessible. They can be accessed by any type of person, so care must be taken. It is recommended that you register so that, in the event of an incident, we can be informed of any changes.

On the other hand, it should not be forgotten that there is a very wide variety of uses for a Rest API: from social networks such as Twitter, to WordPress plugins, to ecommerces to carry out purchases.

In addition to its flexibility and portability, API Rest adapts to different work platforms, allowing it to be present in different development environments. It is also simple to build and adaptable. 

In short, an API Rest is a means that facilitates communication between different apps, which allows for an exchange of information, as well as adding new functionalities in a secure and fast way.

Get into web development with IMMUNE

So now you know, if you can imagine yourself working on the development of an API Rest with Node.JS or by becoming an expert in software developmentyou will require specific training. 

At IMMUNE we have this Degree in Software Development Engineeringas well as with our Bootcamp in Web DevelopmentFind out more about them!