Explain the difference between PUT and POST methods.

Beginner

Answer

POST:

  • Creates new resources
  • Not idempotent (multiple calls create multiple resources)
  • Server determines resource identifier
  • Example: POST /users creates a new user

PUT:

  • Creates or updates resources
  • Idempotent (multiple identical calls have same effect)
  • Client provides resource identifier
  • Example: PUT /users/123 creates or updates user with ID 123