What is the difference between idempotent and non-idempotent APIs?

What is the difference between idempotent and non-idempotent APIs?

Idempotent APIs are those that can be called multiple times without changing the result beyond the initial application. Non-idempotent APIs, on the other hand, may produce different results with each call.

Can you give me examples of each?

Sure! An example of an idempotent API is a DELETE request to remove a resource. Calling it multiple times will have the same effect as calling it once. A non-idempotent example is a POST request to create a new resource, as each call creates a new instance.

Why is idempotency important in API design?

Idempotency is important because it helps ensure that repeated requests do not lead to unintended side effects, making APIs more reliable and easier to use.

How can I implement idempotency in my API?

You can implement idempotency by using unique identifiers for requests, such as a client-generated ID, and ensuring that the server recognizes and ignores duplicate requests.