API endpoints are the entry points for interacting with a web service. They are URLs that you send requests to in order to retrieve data, perform actions, or trigger processes.
What is an API?
Before diving into endpoints, it's important to understand what an API is. An API (Application Programming Interface) is a set of rules and protocols for building and interacting with software applications. It allows different software applications to communicate with each other.
Types of API Endpoints
Read Operations - These endpoints allow you to retrieve data from a server. They are commonly used for fetching information, such as retrieving a list of users or retrieving details about a specific resource.
- GET /users - Retrieves a list of users. - GET /users/{id} - Retrieves details of a specific user.Create Operations - These endpoints allow you to create new resources on the server. They are typically used for adding new entries to a database or initializing new resources.
- POST /users - Creates a new user.Update Operations - These endpoints allow you to modify existing resources on the server. They are commonly used for updating user information, changing settings, or updating the state of a resource.
- PUT /users/{id} - Updates details of a specific user. - PATCH /users/{id} - Partially updates details of a specific user.Delete Operations - These endpoints allow you to remove resources from the server. They are used for deleting entries, resources, or terminating processes.
- DELETE /users/{id} - Deletes a specific user.
Common Practices
- Use HTTPS for secure communication.
- Include appropriate headers such as
Content-TypeandAuthorization. - Return HTTP status codes that accurately represent the outcome of the request (e.g., 200 for success, 404 for not found, 500 for server errors).
- Use clear and consistent naming conventions for endpoints.
Additional Resources
For more information on API endpoints and best practices, check out our API Design Guide.