# REST API

> A REST API is a kind of API where programs exchange data through web addresses and standard HTTP commands. Each type of data has its own address, and reading, adding, updating and deleting use fixed commands. Most shipping, payment and accounting services offer one today.

- URL: https://radkod.com/en/glossary/rest-api
- Publisher: RadKod
- Published: 2026-07-30

## What is a REST API?

A REST API is an [API](/en/glossary/api) that works through web addresses and HTTP commands. REST stands for Representational State Transfer. It is an architectural style, not a product. Each type of data has an address: orders live at one address, products at another. Answers usually come back as JSON, a readable text format.

Here is an everyday case. Your website reads stock levels from your warehouse software. It sends a GET request to "/products/125" and gets that product's stock count. When an order comes in, it sends the order details to "/orders" with a POST request. A cancellation uses DELETE, or PATCH to change the status. Each command has a standard meaning, so two separate teams speak the same language.

## Why does it matter?

REST runs on the same foundations as the web itself, so it is easy to learn, test and document. Before you commit to a service, check that it offers a well-documented REST API. Without documentation, integration takes longer. To hear about events the moment they happen, REST is usually paired with a [webhook](/en/glossary/webhook). See how we connect systems on our [integrations](/en/services/integrations) page.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is the difference between an API and a REST API?

API is the general term for any door two programs talk through. A REST API is one style of that door, using web addresses, HTTP commands and usually JSON.

### Is a REST API secure?

That depends on how it is built. Traffic should use HTTPS, every request should carry a key or access token, and each user should only see the data they are allowed to see.

### What do GET and POST mean?

GET reads information and POST sends a new record. PUT or PATCH update a record, and DELETE removes it.

## Sources

- [REST](https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Glossary/REST), MDN Web Docs