What is ASP.NET Web API?

Updated Apr 28, 2026

Short answer

ASP.NET Web API is a framework for building HTTP services that can be consumed by various clients.

Deep explanation

ASP.NET Web API is designed for building RESTful services over HTTP. It supports multiple formats like JSON and XML and allows communication between client and server using HTTP verbs such as GET, POST, PUT, DELETE.

Real-world example

Backend APIs for mobile apps or SPA applications.

Common mistakes

  • Confusing Web API with MVC controllers.

Follow-up questions

  • What is REST?
  • Why Web API?

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