API vs REST
API (Application Programming Interface) and REST (Representational State Transfer) both come up in technology conversations and get confused. Here's the plain-English difference, side by side, so you can use each one with confidence.
The key difference: API refers to application programming interface, while REST refers to representational state transfer — they describe different things even when they show up in the same sentence.
API — Application Programming Interface
A set of protocols and tools for building software applications that specify how components should interact.
REST — Representational State Transfer
An architectural style for designing networked applications using stateless, client-server communication.
When to use API
Reach for "API" when the conversation is specifically about application programming interface. A set of protocols and tools for building software applications that specify how components should interact.
When to use REST
Reach for "REST" when the conversation is specifically about representational state transfer. An architectural style for designing networked applications using stateless, client-server communication.
FAQs
What is the difference between API and REST?
API stands for Application Programming Interface — A set of protocols and tools for building software applications that specify how components should interact. REST stands for Representational State Transfer — An architectural style for designing networked applications using stateless, client-server communication.
Are API and REST the same thing?
No. They're often used in the same conversation because they're related, but they describe different concepts. API = Application Programming Interface. REST = Representational State Transfer.
When should I use API vs REST?
Use API when you're specifically referring to application programming interface. Use REST when the topic is representational state transfer.