REST vs SOAP vs Other APIs

API means a way for different software to talk and share information with each other.

1. REST (Representational State Transfer)

• REST is a popular way to build APIs.

• It uses simple HTTP methods like GET, POST, PUT, DELETE to do actions.

• REST works with URLs (web addresses) and usually sends data in JSON format (easy to read).

• It is lightweight and easy to use.

• REST APIs are fast and good for web and mobile apps.

• REST does not have strict rules, so it is flexible.

 

2. SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol)

• SOAP is an older way to build APIs.

• It uses XML format to send messages (more complex and heavy).

• SOAP has very strict rules and standards.

• It supports things like security, transactions, and ACID compliance (useful for banks and big companies).

• SOAP works over HTTP, SMTP, and other protocols.

• It is more formal and strict than REST.

 

3. Other APIs

• GraphQL: A newer API style where clients can ask exactly for the data they want, no more, no less. It uses one endpoint and flexible queries.

• gRPC: Uses Protocol Buffers (a fast, compact data format) and is good for high-performance, internal services.

• WebSockets: Used for real-time communication like chat apps or live updates.

 

Summary Table