• Chris Woodruff
• March 24, 2025
• HTTP REST
• HTTP, network, REST
• 0 Comments

Of all the REST constraints, Code on Demand is the one that most developers either overlook or actively avoid. Unlike the other five constraints, it is the only optional one, meaning a RESTful system doesn’t have to use it. But when applied correctly, it can unlock powerful capabilities in web applications. Let’s explore what Code on Demand is, when it makes sense to use it, and why most REST APIs don’t rely on it.

• Chris Woodruff
• March 23, 2025
• HTTP REST
• HTTP, network, REST
• 0 Comments

Building a reliable, scalable web application is no easy feat. The internet is unpredictable, traffic surges happen, and security threats lurk around every corner. That’s why REST includes the Layered System constraint—a design principle that structures applications into multiple layers, each handling a specific role. Whether it’s distributing traffic, securing data, or managing services, layering helps RESTful systems stay resilient and adaptable.

• Chris Woodruff
• March 22, 2025
• HTTP REST
• HTTP, network, REST
• 0 Comments

The internet is fast—until it’s not. Nobody likes waiting for a sluggish API response, and overloaded servers don’t help either. That’s where caching comes in. RESTful APIs embrace caching to improve performance, reduce server load, and create a smoother user experience. But caching isn’t just about speed—it’s about efficiency. Let’s dive into how REST makes caching an essential part of scalable web applications.

• Chris Woodruff
• March 21, 2025
• HTTP REST
• HTTP, network, REST
• 0 Comments

When it comes to building scalable web applications, statelessness is one of REST’s most powerful constraints. It simplifies architecture, makes scaling easier, and helps APIs handle massive traffic loads without breaking a sweat. But what does being “stateless” actually mean in REST, and why is it such a big deal?

• Chris Woodruff
• March 20, 2025
• HTTP REST
• HTTP, network, REST
• 0 Comments

The internet as we know it thrives on separation—specifically, the separation of clients and servers. It’s a fundamental principle of REST and a key factor in building scalable, maintainable, and flexible applications. But what exactly does this separation mean, and why does it matter? Let’s dive into the Client-Server constraint, one of REST’s six core architectural principles.