An integration architect is designing an API that must accept requests from API clients for...

REST (Representational State Transfer) is an architectural style commonly used for designing networked applications, particularly APIs that need to handle multiple content types over HTTP. Here’s a detailed explanation:

Content Negotiation:

Definition: REST APIs support content negotiation, allowing clients to request either XML or JSON formats by setting the Accept header in HTTP requests.

Flexibility: This capability makes REST ideal for scenarios where an API needs to serve multiple content types.

HTTP Protocol:

Usage: REST APIs operate over HTTP/1.1, making them compatible with web standards and easily accessible by various clients (browsers, mobile apps, etc.).

Methods: Supports standard HTTP methods like GET, POST, PUT, DELETE, allowing for CRUD operations.

Advantages:

Stateless: Each request from a client to server must contain all the information needed to understand and process the request.

Scalability: RESTful services can handle a high load of requests efficiently.

References

REST API Design: RESTful Web Services

Content Negotiation: HTTP Content Negotiation