Summary
In this chapter, you learned the difference between REST and RESTful, and why the REST approach is the preferred method for building API web services compared to previous methods used before.
We have investigated the principles of REST architecture, the levels of using the Richardson Maturity Model, and the existing alternatives to REST.
Then, we looked at the role of JSON in REST services and the importance of following well-defined guidelines proven by numerous projects while developing REST web services.
Lastly, we investigated the architectural impact of REST API design and the project that will be built throughout this book in the following chapters.
This chapter presents the basics for you to get started with the upcoming content that will be presented and built throughout this book.
In the next chapter, we will explore the design and practical implementation of RESTful APIs using Spring Boot.