WordPress REST API
The WordPress REST API is a set of HTTP endpoints that allow external applications to interact with a WordPress site programmatically, enabling CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations on content like posts, pages, and users. It uses JSON for data exchange and follows RESTful principles, making it accessible via standard HTTP methods such as GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE. This API transforms WordPress from a traditional CMS into a headless or decoupled platform, where the front-end can be built with modern JavaScript frameworks.
Developers should learn the WordPress REST API when building headless WordPress sites, mobile apps, or custom integrations that need to fetch or manipulate WordPress content from external systems. It's essential for decoupling the front-end (e.g., using React or Vue.js) from the WordPress back-end, enabling faster, more scalable web applications. Use cases include creating custom dashboards, syncing data with third-party services, or developing progressive web apps (PWAs) that leverage WordPress as a content repository.