What is REST API?
REST API is defined as an architectural style for developing APIs that uses standard HTTP requests to GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE data over a network.
Detailed Architectural Context
REST (Representational State Transfer) is the standard web API pattern. It organizes system resources into unique URL endpoints (e.g., `/api/v1/customers`) and transfers data using JSON payloads. REST APIs are stateless, meaning each client request contains all the information needed to complete the action. They are highly compatible with headless CMS platforms and are simple to secure using JSON Web Tokens (JWT) or OAuth2 protocols.
Related Technical Terms
GraphQL
An open-source data query and manipulation language for APIs that lets clients request exactly the data they need, and nothing more.
API Gateway
A server that acts as an entry point for APIs, routing requests, enforcing rate limits, managing security, and aggregating data from backend microservices.
Headless CMS
A content management system that handles back-end content creation and editing, exposing data via APIs without being bound to a specific front-end design.
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