What is an endpoint in API?

An endpoint in an API refers to a specific URL where a client can access a resource or perform an action on the server. It is part of the API's architecture, defining the location (usually a URL path) where the API's resources or services are made accessible to clients. Each endpoint is associated with a specific HTTP method (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) that dictates the type of action being performed on the resource.

Key Concepts of an API Endpoint:

1. URL Path: The unique path to access a particular resource, such as /users, /orders, or /products/{id}.
2. HTTP Method: The action to be performed on the resource, such as:
   • GET: Retrieve data.
   • POST: Create new data.
   • PUT/PATCH: Update existing data.
   • DELETE: Remove data.
3. Parameters: Endpoints often include parameters to specify which data to retrieve or manipulate. These can be:
   • Path parameters: Defined within the endpoint URL (e.g., /users/{id}).
   • Query parameters: Passed as key-value pairs in the URL (e.g., /users?status=active).

Example:

For a RESTful API managing a library of books:

• GET /books: Retrieves a list of books.
• GET /books/{id}: Retrieves a specific book by its ID.
• POST /books: Adds a new book to the collection.
• PUT /books/{id}: Updates information about a specific book.
• DELETE /books/{id}: Deletes a book from the collection.

Importance of Endpoints:

Endpoints are the building blocks of API interaction, allowing clients (like web apps, mobile apps, or other servers) to communicate with the server, perform operations, and retrieve or manipulate data.

Sources:

• REST API Endpoints Overview
• API Endpoint in Practice