Rests

Understanding HTTP, REST, and the OPTIONS Method

Overview

HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the foundational protocol for data communication on the web, with REST defining a set of architectural principles for designing web services that leverage HTTP methods to manage resources. The OPTIONS method extends this by enabling clients to query a server’s capabilities and allowed actions for specific URLs.

Key Insights

• HTTP facilitates all internet communication via a request-response model.
• REST structures web services around resources, accessible and manipulated using standard HTTP methods (e.g., URLs and actions).
• Common HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) directly map to CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations.
• The OPTIONS method queries a server about allowed interactions for a URL without affecting data.
• CORS preflight requests commonly utilize OPTIONS to ensure cross-origin security before full requests are sent.

Technical Details

Understanding HTTP and REST

What is HTTP?

HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the protocol enabling communication between web clients (like browsers) and servers. It operates on a request-response model: a client sends a request, and the server returns a response.