The Force.com REST API lets you integrate with Force.com applications using simple HTTP methods, in either XML or JSON formats, making this an ideal API for developing mobile applications or external clients. Force.com also supports Apex REST, currently in Developer Preview, that lets you create web services on Force.com using Apex.

Here are some of the benefits of using the REST API in your integrations:
  • Ubiquitous access: You can use standard HTTP method call-outs, available on every language and platform, to make requests and retrieve information from Force.com.
  • Standards-based security: Utilize the OAuth protocol for authenticating your REST calls.
  • Data model: The REST API uses the same data model and standard objects as those in SOAP-based web services.
  • Flexible formats: The REST API supports both an XML serialization as well as the JSON format.

Getting Started with the REST API

You can get started with the REST API in your own Developer Edition environment right now - it's enabled on all Developer Edition (DE) environments. The Apex REST functionality (developer preview) is also now available in your DE environments.

Articles, Code and Webinars

 


Screenshots

Design View A REST API call Code View Using the API to authenticate

Resources

Here are additional resources to help you get started developing with the REST API on Force.com

Discussion Board
Documentation
"The REST API was extremely easy to use and enabled us to do so much in a short amount of time."
- Sanjay Gidwani
Technical Architect
Model Metrics, Inc.