C++ REST SDK
A C++ library for cloud-based client-server communication using modern asynchronous APIs.
What is C++ REST SDK?
C++ REST SDK is a Microsoft-developed library that provides tools for cloud-based client-server communication in native C++ code. It offers HTTP client/server capabilities, JSON processing, WebSockets support, and asynchronous operations using modern C++11 features. The library helps C++ developers connect their applications to web services and APIs with a clean, asynchronous API design.
C++ developers building applications that need to communicate with web services, cloud APIs, or implement HTTP servers. It's particularly useful for developers working on cross-platform projects that require REST API integration.
Developers choose C++ REST SDK for its comprehensive feature set covering HTTP communication, JSON handling, and asynchronous operations in a single library. Its cross-platform support and modern C++ design make it a convenient choice for native applications that need cloud connectivity without relying on external dependencies.
Overview
The C++ REST SDK is a Microsoft project for cloud-based client-server communication in native code using a modern asynchronous C++ API design. This project aims to help C++ developers connect to and interact with services.
Use Cases
Best For
- Building HTTP clients for REST API consumption in C++ applications
- Creating cross-platform applications that need web service integration
- Implementing asynchronous network operations in native C++ code
- Developing applications requiring both HTTP and WebSocket communication
- Parsing and serializing JSON data in C++ projects
- Building lightweight HTTP servers within C++ applications
Not Ideal For
- New projects requiring long-term active development and regular feature updates
- Teams that need to leverage the latest C++ standards beyond C++11 for performance or syntax
- Applications where a minimal, header-only library footprint is critical to reduce dependencies
- Projects that prioritize community-driven ecosystems with frequent contributions and plugins
Pros & Cons
Pros
Integrates HTTP client/server, JSON parsing, WebSockets, and async operations in one library, as listed in the 'What's in the SDK' section, reducing the need for multiple dependencies.
Officially supports Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, Android, and Unix systems, making it versatile for diverse deployment targets without platform-specific code.
Uses PPL Tasks based on C++11 for efficient, non-blocking code, which is ideal for cloud-connected applications requiring high concurrency, as emphasized in the philosophy.
Offers straightforward installation via popular package managers like vcpkg, apt-get, and brew, and includes CMake support, simplifying project setup as shown in the getting started guide.
Cons
The README explicitly states that cpprestsdk is in maintenance mode and not recommended for new projects, meaning only critical bug fixes are addressed, with no new features or active development.
Relies on the Parallel Patterns Library (PPL) for asynchronous tasks, which may require additional setup or compatibility layers on non-Windows platforms, increasing complexity.
Built on C++11 features, so it lacks support for modern C++17 or C++20 improvements that could enhance performance, safety, and developer ergonomics in newer projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
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