What is the difference between GET and POST methods?

The main differences between GET and POST methods are as follows:

• Data transmission:

  • GET: Data is transmitted in the URL (query string). Visible in the browser's address bar, history, and server logs.
  • POST: Data is transmitted in the body of the HTTP request. Not visible in the URL, not stored in browser history.

• Data size:

  • GET: Has limitations on the size of transmitted data due to URL length restrictions.
  • POST: No strict limitations on data size.

• Security:

  • GET: Less suitable for transmitting confidential data (passwords, credit card numbers) as data is visible in the URL and can be saved.
  • POST: More suitable for transmitting confidential data as data is not visible in the URL.

• Caching:

  • GET: Requests can be cached by browsers and proxy servers.
  • POST: Requests are usually not cached.

• Idempotency:

  • GET: Is idempotent (multiple executions of the request do not change the server state). Suitable for data retrieval.
  • POST: Not idempotent (multiple executions can lead to different results or change the state). Used for sending data, creating/modifying resources.

• Usage:

  • GET: Used for retrieving data from the server (e.g., page loading, search).
  • POST: Used for sending data to the server (e.g., form submission, registration, creating a new resource).

• Bookmarks/History:

  • GET: Requests can be bookmarked and remain in browser history.
  • POST: Requests are usually not fully saved in history or bookmarks.

Summarized in a table:

Attribute	GET	POST
Data transmission	In URL (query string)	In request body
Data visibility	Visible in URL	Not visible in URL
Data size	Limited	Unlimited (practically)
Security	Less (for confidential data)	More (for confidential data)
Caching	Possible	Usually not
Idempotency	Yes	No
Purpose	Data retrieval	Sending data, creating/modifying
Bookmarks/History	Saved	Usually not saved