What is GET used for?

GET is an HTTP method used to retrieve data from a server.

In simple terms: GET is needed to "fetch" data without changing it on the server.

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#The main purpose of GET

GET is used when you need to:

• get a web page
• request data from an API
• download a file
• get a list, a card, information

GET must not change data on the server.

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#How GET works

1. The client sends an HTTP request with the GET method
2. The server:

• reads the request
• finds the needed resource
• returns the data in the HTTP response

3. The client uses the data it received

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#Where data is sent with GET

Data with GET is usually sent:

• in the URL
• as query parameters

Example:

GET /users?id=123

A GET request usually has no body.

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#Key properties of GET

#1. Safe method

GET is considered safe:

• it must not change the server's state
• a repeated GET does not lead to changes

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#2. Idempotent

A repeated GET:

• returns the same result
• causes no side effects

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#3. Cacheable

GET requests:

• can be cached by the browser
• can be cached by proxies and CDNs

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#What NOT to do with GET

Send passwords Change data Perform create or delete operations

That is what POST, PUT, and DELETE are for.

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#Real-life example

GET is like:

• looking at a product in a store
• reading a book
• opening a page

You change nothing, you just look.