HTTP

Every API MUST support HTTP/1.1 and MUST adhere to its semantic.

HTTP Protocol Quick Start

The understanding of HTTP starts with the understanding of HTTP message and its routing.

Once you are familiar with the HTTP message structure learn about the HTTP request methods, HTTP response status codes and HTTP headers.

Each HTTP request method, status code, and header have its semantics defined, and every API MUST strictly adhere to it.

Follow the Robustness Principle. Use only the HTTP request methods, response codes and HTTP headers you understand, be liberal in accepting others.

Know HTTP

The following documents are great overview of the HTTP protocol and related standards:

• HTTP Headers

• HTTP Request Methods

• HTTP Response Status Codes

• HTTP Link Relations

Alternatively, you can download HTTP cheat sheets at HTTP posters.

RFCs

The HTTP protocol semantics is defined in the following RFCs:

1. RFC 7230, HTTP/1.1: Message Syntax and Routing
2. RFC 7231, HTTP/1.1: Semantics and Content
3. RFC 7232, HTTP/1.1: Conditional Requests
4. RFC 7233, HTTP/1.1: Range Requests
5. RFC 7234, HTTP/1.1: Caching
6. RFC 7235, HTTP/1.1: Authentication