May 1, 2024
Updated May 10, 2025
24 minute read
Representational State Transfer, or REST, is an architectural style that defines a set of constraints for creating web services. Web services that conform to REST principles are known as RESTful APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). At a high level, REST provides a standardized way for computer systems to communicate over the internet, allowing different software applications to exchange information and functionality seamlessly. Think of it as a universal language that enables diverse programs to understand each other, regardless of their underlying programming languages or platforms.
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Find a path to becoming a REST. Learn more at:
OpenCourser.com/topic/ocveb9/res
Reading list
We've selected ten books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
REST.
Classic guide to RESTful web APIs, providing detailed guidance on how to design, build, and document APIs that meet the needs of both developers and consumers.
Is the definitive guide to HTTP, the protocol that underlies REST.
This practical guide provides a comprehensive overview of RESTful web services, with a focus on best practices for designing and implementing RESTful APIs.
Provides a practical guide to building RESTful APIs with Node.js.
Provides a practical guide to building RESTful APIs with Java using JAX-RS 2.0.
Provides a practical guide to building RESTful APIs with Ruby on Rails.
Provides a practical guide to building RESTful APIs with Django.
Provides a practical guide to building and deploying RESTful APIs using Amazon Web Services.
While not specifically about REST, this book provides a deep dive into the design principles and patterns used in data-intensive applications, which are often implemented using RESTful APIs.
Provides a practical guide to building RESTful APIs with Python.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/ocveb9/res