Understanding HTTP DELETE Requests
Tags: http, requestforpost, api
Published: 2024-01-24 08:21:30

## What is an HTTP DELETE Request?

An HTTP DELETE request is a method used in the Hypertext Transfer  Protocol (HTTP) to request that a resource be removed or deleted on the  server. When a client sends an HTTP DELETE request to a server, it asks  the server to delete the specified resource, such as a file or a  database record.

The HTTP DELETE method is idempotent, meaning that making multiple  identical requests should have the same effect as making a single  request. However, it's important to note that the actual deletion of a  resource depends on the server's implementation and policies.

Typically, the DELETE request includes a URI (Uniform Resource  Identifier) that identifies the resource to be deleted. Upon receiving  the DELETE request, the server processes it and removes the specified  resource if it exists, returning a status code to indicate the success  or failure of the operation.

## What is the Code for a DELETE Request?

When you send a DELETE request to a server using a tool like [cURL ](https://apidog.com/articles/what-is-curl/)or through programming languages with HTTP libraries, you typically  include the method, URI, and any necessary headers or request body.

For example, using cURL:

```
curl -X DELETE http://example.com/resource/path
```

In this command, `-X DELETE` specifies the HTTP method as DELETE, and the URL `http://example.com/resource/path` is the resource to be deleted.

## DELETE API Response Codes

When an HTTP DELETE request is made to a server, the server responds with an [HTTP status code ](https://apidog.com/articles/api-responses-error-messages/)to indicate the result of the operation. Here are some common HTTP status  codes that can be returned in response to a DELETE request:

- **200 OK**: The DELETE request was successful, and the  resource has been deleted. The server may also include additional  information in the response body.
- **204 No Content**: The DELETE request was successful,  and there is no additional information to send in the response body.  This status code is often used when the server successfully deletes a  resource but does not need to return any content.
- **202 Accepted**: The server has accepted the deletion  request, but the actual deletion may not have been completed yet. This  status is often used in asynchronous processing scenarios.
- **404 Not Found**: The resource specified in the DELETE request could not be found on the server. This indicates that the  resource does not exist or has already been deleted.

### Making HTTP DELETE Requests with Apidog:

Let's embark on a journey of making HTTP DELETE requests using  Apidog. With Apidog, the process becomes a breeze, allowing you to  seamlessly manage resource deletion without the complexities often  associated with manual request creation.

**1、Open Apidog:** Begin by navigating to Apidog's user interface.

**2、Creating a New Project:** Organize your API requests by creating a new project in Apidog. This step ensures a structured  approach to managing your HTTP DELETE requests, fostering clarity and  ease of access.

![ Creating a New Project](https://assets.apidog.com/blog/2024/01/http-project.png)

**3. Crafting the DELETE Request:** Within your project, proceed to create a new HTTP DELETE request. Apidog's intuitive  interface allows you to input the target URI and any necessary  parameters effortlessly.

![img](https://assets.apidog.com/blog/2024/01/image-138.png)

**4. Adding Headers and Authentication:** Enhance your  HTTP DELETE request by seamlessly adding headers and authentication  details through Apidog's straightforward options.

## Benefits of Apidog in HTTP DELETE Workflows:

- **Efficiency and Simplicity:** Apidog streamlines the  process of crafting HTTP DELETE requests, reducing the time and effort  traditionally associated with manual API interactions.
- **Visual Representation:** Apidog provides a visual representation of your HTTP DELETE request, making it easier to understand and modify as needed.
- **Collaboration and Documentation:** Leverage Apidog's  collaboration and documentation tools to enhance teamwork and document  the details of your HTTP DELETE requests seamlessly.

## Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering HTTP DELETE requests is a fundamental skill  in API management, and Apidog serves as a valuable companion in  simplifying this process. With Apidog's user-friendly features and  intuitive interface, developers can navigate the intricacies of HTTP  DELETE requests effortlessly, fostering a more efficient and enjoyable  API management experience.