---
title: "REST"
url: "https://docs.unified.to/concepts/glossary/rest"
description: "Unified.to documentation"
generated_at: "2026-05-21T18:12:27.756Z"
---
# Glossary: REST[Glossary](/concepts/glossary)

A REST API, also known as a RESTful API, is a specific type of application programming interface (API) that follows the Representational State Transfer (REST) architectural style. Here's a breakdown of the key points:

**Concept:**

* API: Think of it as a messenger between different software systems. It defines how programs can request and receive data from each other.
* REST: A set of guidelines for designing APIs that favor simplicity, interoperability, and scalability. Think of it as best practices for API design.

**Functioning:**

* REST APIs use standard HTTP methods: GET to retrieve information, POST to create new data, PUT to update data, and DELETE to remove data. This makes them familiar and easy to use for developers.
* Data is typically exchanged in JSON format, which is human-readable and widely supported.
* Each resource (like a product or user) has a unique identifier (like a URL) and is accessed through specific endpoints.

**Benefits:**

* **Standardized**: Easier for developers to understand and integrate with.
* **Interoperable**: Works across different platforms and programming languages.
* **Scalable**: Can handle large amounts of data and traffic efficiently.
* **Flexible**: Can be adapted to various use cases.

**Examples:**

* Many popular websites and services have REST APIs, like Twitter, Facebook, Google Maps, and Amazon.
* Developers can use these APIs to integrate their own applications with these services, adding new features and functionality.

**Additional points:**

* Not all APIs are RESTful, but REST APIs are very common due to their advantages.
* There are specific guidelines and constraints for building RESTful APIs.
* Security is important when using any API, including REST APIs.