RESTful - Addressing

URI(Uniform Resource Identifier)

URI helps us in locating a resource on the internet. There are some basic features which a URI has. Let us see those features:

1. Uniqueness: URI helps us to identify a resource on the internet. Each resource on the internet has a unique identifier. 
    
2. Extensibility: URI is assigned to every resource which is not even part of the network.
    
3. Universality: URIs should be able to locate every resource available on the internet.
    
4. Fixability: Once a URI is designed we should be able to change it. 
    

Implementation

Let us now see how we can make a Standard URI:
 

There are some essential points that we should consider while making a URI. These are not fixed rules but some points we must remember to make a good URI. Let us see those important points👇.

1. While making a URI, we should always use plural nouns. For example, use customers if using in a URI instead of customer.
 

2. Use underscore or hyphens instead of giving spaces. For example: replace verified customers with verified_customers. 

3. Do not use uppercase while making a URI. 

4. After updating the URI, we should ensure that the older URI must be directed to the new one. HTTP status code 300 helps us redirect the older URI to the newer one.

5. We should never use the operation name in the URI. We have HTTP Verbs that help us in performing operations on the resources.

Let us see an example👇 of a URI without considering the conventions:

http://localhost:8080/CodingNinjas/rest/Coding Ninjas Studio/getIntern/1
 

Now let us see the better way to represent the same URI👇:

http://localhost:8080/CodingNinjas/rest/Coding Ninjas Studio/interns/1

Frequently Asked Questions❓

What does REST stand for?

REST is an acronym for REpresentational State Transfer.

What are RESTful web services?

The web services that use REST architecture are known as RESTful web services.

Name some HTTP Verbs.

Some HTTP Verbs are GET, PUT, DELETE, and POST.

Can we use uppercase while designing a URI?

Yes, we can use uppercase while designing a URI. However, it is not recommended to do so.

Conclusion🔚

This article was an insight into RESTful addressing. We learned what REST means. We also saw the different points we must be mindful of while designing a URI. Also, check out other articles like RESTful - Methods, RESTful - Statelessness, RESTful - Application, and RESTful - Resources.

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Happy learning!