An HTTP Request is a message sent by a client (such as a web browser or API client) to a server to request specific resources (e.g., a web page, image, or data) or to perform actions (e.g., submitting form data). It is a core mechanism in web communication, enabling interaction between clients and servers.
Components of an HTTP Request:
- Method (GET, POST, etc.)
- URL (resource identifier)
- Headers (additional information)
- Body (optional, contains data)
Common HTTP Methods:
- GET: Retrieve data
- POST: Submit data
- PUT: Update existing data
- DELETE: Remove data
Requests can include parameters in the URL or data in the body, depending on the method used.