Simplifying RESTful APIs: Build Your First Interface in Pure PHP in 5 Definitive Steps

In the modern programming universe, mastering RESTful APIs has become an essential skill for developers. Today, we’ll demystify the process of creating a robust API using only pure PHP, without complex frameworks.

Step 1: Setting Up the Environment

Before starting, make sure you have PHP 7.4+ installed. We’ll use only native language resources, ensuring maximum portability and performance.

Step 2: Directory Structure

Organize your project with clear folders:

    /api
    ├── config/
    ├── controllers/
    ├── models/
    └── index.php
    

Step 3: Manual Routing

Implement a basic router in the index.php file to manage different endpoints without external libraries.

Step 4: Request Handling

Use HTTP methods like GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE natively, ensuring data validation and security.

Step 5: Data Return

Standardize your responses in JSON, following best practices for structuring and HTTP status codes.

Practical Code Example

With these 5 steps, you’ll have a functional and scalable RESTful API, built with pure PHP!