When are REST methods used?

REST services are used for interaction between distributed systems where simplicity, flexibility, and scalability are important. Main use cases:

• Web services: Providing APIs for client applications (single-page applications, mobile apps).
• System integration: Data exchange between different services within corporate architecture or with external partners.
• Microservice architecture: Interaction between individual microservices.
• IoT (Internet of Things): Data exchange between devices and cloud services.

Main principles of REST that make it suitable for these tasks:

• Client-server architecture: Clear separation of responsibilities.
• Stateless: Each request contains all necessary information for processing.
• Cacheability: Responses can be cached to improve performance.
• Uniform interface: Standard HTTP methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) and resource identifiers (URI).
• Layered system: Ability to add intermediate layers (load balancers, proxies).
• Code on demand (optional): Server can extend client functionality by sending executable code.

Example of using REST API:

// GET request to retrieve user information
GET /users/123

// Response with user information
{
  "id": 123,
  "name": "Ivan Petrov",
  "email": "ivan.petrov@example.com"
}

Unlike other approaches, such as SOAP, REST is easier to use, does not require a strict WSDL contract, and relies on standard web technologies (HTTP, JSON/XML). REST is preferred when simplicity of development, flexibility, and compatibility with various clients are important.