REST is a hybrid style derived from several of the network-based architectural styles and combined with additional constraints that define a uniform connector interface.
The design rationale behind the Web architecture can be described by an architectural style consisting of the set of constraints applied to elements within the architecture. By examining the impact of each constraint as it is added to the evolving style, we can identify the properties induced by the Webs constraints. Additional constraints can then be applied to form a new architectural style that better reflects the desired properties of a modern Web architecture. This book provides a general overview of REST by walking through the various architectural elements.
