What is REST API?
- REST API stands for Representational State Transfer Application Programming Interface, is a set of rules and conventions for building and interacting with web services. It is an architectural style that uses standard HTTP methods to perform various operations on resources. Salesforce, being a cloud-based platform, provides a robust and comprehensive REST API that allows developers to interact with Salesforce data and services programmatically.
Salesforce's REST API uses standard HTTP methods for different purposes:
1. GET: Retrieve data from Salesforce. For example, you can use a GET request to fetch information about a specific record or a list of records.
2. POST: Create new records in Salesforce. You can use a POST request to add data to your Salesforce instance.
3. PUT: Update existing records in Salesforce. This method is used to modify the data of an existing record.
4. Patch: Partially update existing records in Salesforce by sending only the modified fields in the request payload, optimizing data updates.
5. DELETE: Remove records from Salesforce. You can send a DELETE request to delete a specific record.
Benefits of using REST API in Salesforce
Integration: REST API in Salesforce facilitates smooth integration, effortlessly exchanging data between Salesforce and other systems.
Flexibility: REST API offers flexibility in accessing and manipulating data, enabling customization and automation of Salesforce processes.
Security: REST API uses the same security and access controls as other Salesforce applications, ensuring that your data is secure.