# What is a REST API?

> A REST API is an interface that lets two computer systems exchange data over HTTP, using standard verbs (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) and URLs that represent resources.

- Source canonique : [https://allaux.fr/en/glossaire/api-rest](https://allaux.fr/en/glossaire/api-rest)
- Langue : EN
- Dernière mise à jour : 2026-09-30

## Why it matters for an online store

A REST API lets the store connect to external tools — accounting software, a marketplace, a mobile app, an ERP — without those systems sharing a common database. Each keeps its own database and talks to the others through standardised requests, which limits the risk of conflicts and makes each system easier to maintain independently.

## In practice

PrestaShop provides a native webservice exposing the catalogue, orders and customers in XML or JSON format, enabled and authenticated via a key generated in the back office. WooCommerce provides a REST API authenticated with a consumer key and secret, generated in the store settings, used for example to sync orders with an external tool.

## REST isn't a single protocol

> REST refers to a set of architectural conventions, not a specific technology: two REST APIs can offer different resources and response structures while still following the same principles.

## FAQ

### What's the difference between a REST API and a webhook?

A REST API is actively queried by a system that fetches information when it needs it, while a webhook is sent automatically by the originating service as soon as an event occurs.

### Do you need technical skills to use a REST API?

Yes, using one generally requires a developer's involvement, whether to generate the access credentials or to build requests to the right resources.

### Is WooCommerce's REST API enabled by default?

Access keys have to be generated manually in the store settings; without a valid key, the API rejects authenticated requests.