RESTConf

RESTConf is a RESTful protocol designed for network device management and configuration, enabling simplified access to data modeled using the YANG data modeling language. It provides a standardized mechanism for operations such as retrieving, creating, updating, and deleting network configurations and state data over HTTP or HTTPS.

Developed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), RESTConf aims to facilitate automation and programmability in network environments by providing an accessible, scalable interface for network administrators and management systems. It is often used in conjunction with YANG models, which define a structured schema for device data, ensuring consistency and interoperability across different network devices and platforms.

The protocol operates primarily through well-known HTTP methods such as GET, POST, PUT, PATCH, and DELETE, corresponding to read and modify operations on network data. RESTConf supports features like data validation, transaction support, and notifications, enhancing its robustness for network management tasks.

RESTConf is positioned as an alternative to the NETCONF protocol, emphasizing simplicity and compatibility with web standards. Its adoption has grown with the increasing emphasis on network automation, programmability, and the proliferation of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) architectures.

In summary, RESTConf is a modern, standardized protocol that enables efficient, programmatic management of network devices using RESTful principles and YANG data models, contributing to streamlined network operations and automation.