You can build an HTTP API on AWS without provisioning or maintaining application servers: Amazon API Gateway receives requests, AWS Lambda runs your code, and Amazon DynamoDB stores data. For a first project, AWS’s HTTP API CRUD tutorial walks through creating those resources, connecting them, and testing the result. Choose an HTTP API or a REST API deliberately; they are distinct API Gateway types, not interchangeable names.
How the serverless API works
A client sends an HTTP request to API Gateway. The gateway invokes the Lambda function associated with the route; the function performs the requested work, such as reading or writing a DynamoDB item, and returns a response through API Gateway to the client. AWS describes this as a standard serverless architecture: the services manage the underlying infrastructure, while you configure the API, code, data model, permissions, and operational controls.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
“Serverless” does not mean there are no servers. It means you do not provision or administer the application servers for this architecture. API Gateway, Lambda, and DynamoDB remain services you configure and monitor.
Recommended Free Tools
Choose HTTP API or REST API
API Gateway offers both HTTP APIs and REST APIs. AWS’s introductory CRUD tutorial uses an HTTP API. AWS’s separate REST tutorial uses REST API resources and methods and includes a deployment stage. AWS says REST APIs include more features; that does not mean every first API needs those features.
#1 Best Overall
- Adjustable Depth: 23-40'' adjustable depth is used for servers and network equipment, ensuring enough space for AV equipment, components, and cabling, while allowing you to access ports and equipment from multiple sides.
- Strong Load Capacity: Ground-Mounted Load Capacity: 500 lbs, Wall-Mounted Load Capacity: 150 lbs. The av rack is made of carbon steel for better weldability performance and can help save space while meeting your need to place multiple devices.
- User-friendly Design: Ergonomic design makes the open frame av rack easier to use. The additional top panel is able to place other items with more available space. Roller design moves anywhere and anytime, is convenient, and is more energy-saving.
- Complete Accessories: We provide the accessories you need, including 2 x Pallets, 145 x M5*10 Cross Head Screws, 4 x Casters, 4 x M10*50 Expansion Screws,10 x M6*12 Cage Nuts, 1 x Grounding Wire, 1 x User Manual.
- Wide Application: The server rack wall mount maximizes the use of available space, suitable for retail venues, classrooms, offices, and other places where space is limited.
| Choice | What the AWS tutorial builds | Useful distinction |
|---|---|---|
| HTTP API | A CRUD HTTP API with a DynamoDB table, Lambda function, routes, and integration. (AWS HTTP API CRUD tutorial) | A direct route for following the beginner CRUD exercise. |
| REST API | A REST API with a Lambda integration, a method, deployment to a stage, and a curl test. (AWS REST API tutorial) | A distinct API type; AWS says it offers more features. A client calls the deployed stage endpoint. |
Use the HTTP API path below if your goal is to reproduce AWS’s beginner CRUD exercise. Consider a REST API when its additional features fit your requirements. The sources cited here do not establish a complete current pricing comparison, so check AWS’s current pricing information before choosing on cost grounds.
Build the HTTP API with AWS’s CRUD tutorial
Have an AWS account and an IAM user with console access. AWS estimates approximately 30 minutes for its HTTP CRUD tutorial and says it can be completed within the AWS Free Tier. Those statements describe the tutorial, not a guarantee that every account or ongoing deployment will be free.
Rank #2
- ADJUSTABLE DEPTH: 4-Post 25U open frame server rack with 4 vertical rails and adjustable mounting depth 22" to 40" (56,0cm to 101,7cm); Compatible with various servers / switches / data / AV and other IT equipment; EIA/ECA-310-E Compliant
- EASY ASSEMBLY: Mobile network rack with easy-to-follow assembly instructions and online video; Compact flat-pack shipping to avoid damage and facilitate installation; Total product height of 50.8in (129cm) with casters, 48in (122cm) without casters
- COLD ROLLED STEEL: Durable 4 Post 19in open frame rack designed for ventilation with 25U mounting height and 1200lb (544kg) weight capacity (stationary); 3 install options included: casters, levelling feet, or base-plate to secure rack to the floor
- HARDWARE INCLUDED: Rolling computer/data rack includes cage nuts and screws to mount equipment, easy to read Units (U) and depth adjustment markings, cable management hooks for organization, and required assembly tools
- THE IT PRO'S CHOICE: Designed and built for IT Professionals, this 25U rack is backed for 2-years, including free lifetime 24/5 multi-lingual technical assistance
- Create the DynamoDB table. Follow the tutorial to create a table with
idas its partition key. - Create the Lambda function. Add the function that handles the API requests and works with the table.
- Create an HTTP API. Select the HTTP API path rather than the REST API path.
- Define routes and connect the integration. Configure the routes in the tutorial and connect them to the Lambda function.
- Test the API. Send requests to the endpoint and check that the expected responses and data operations work.
Follow AWS’s full walkthrough for the exact console sequence and sample implementation: Create a CRUD HTTP API with API Gateway, Lambda, and DynamoDB. When you finish experimenting, use the tutorial’s cleanup steps to remove resources you no longer need. Before deploying anything beyond the exercise, check the current terms and charges that apply to your account.
What changes if you use a REST API
The REST tutorial follows a different setup sequence. It configures Lambda and its execution role, creates the API and resource/method, creates the DynamoDB table, tests the integration, deploys the API to a stage, and invokes the stage URL with HTTP requests. A REST API client needs an API deployment and an associated stage before it can call the endpoint.
Rank #3
- Adjustable Depth: Depth adjustable from 23" to 40", this open frame server rack accommodates servers and network equipment while providing ample space for A/V gears and cable management. Enjoy easy access to ports and devices from multiple angles.
- High Weight Capacity: Supports up to 300 lbs on the floor (200 lbs when adjusted to maximum depth) and 200 lbs when wall-mounted (depth cannot be adjusted in wall-mounted mode). Made from carbon steel for superior welding performance and durability, this open frame rack is designed to save space while accommodating multiple devices.
- User-Friendly Design: Designed with your convenience in mind, this open frame server rack features an top shelf for extra storage and improved space utilization. The rolling casters let you move it effortlessly wherever you need it, making setup and movement a breeze.
- Widely Applicable: Maximize your space with this adaptable open frame server rack, designed to make the most of every inch. Ideal for retail spots, classrooms, offices, and any area where space is at a premium, it delivers practical solutions for your storage needs.
- Everything You Need: Our open-frame rack comes with fully equipped accessory kit for easy setup and secure installation: 2 x Trays, 4 x Casters, 1 x set of Screws, 16 x M6*12 Cage Nuts, 1 x Grounding Wire, 1 x Internal & External Hex Wrenches, and 1 x User Manual.
AWS’s example uses one POST method and one function to keep the walkthrough simple. AWS notes that separate functions and methods are a better practice for a real application. Treat the tutorial as a learning exercise rather than a complete production design. The full REST walkthrough is at Build a REST API with Lambda integration.
Understand the Lambda integration
With a Lambda proxy integration, API Gateway passes request information to the function, and your function parses it. With a non-proxy integration, API Gateway configuration maps request data into the integration payload. That mapping can require additional setup. AWS explains the distinction in its Lambda integration documentation.
Rank #4
- 22U Universal 19 inch equipment Rack Cabinet with Locking Wheels for AV, Networking, Computer Server, Home Theater Rack-mountable Gear.
- Compatible with American 5mm and European 6mm rack mount standards. Screws packs for both are included.
- Open Front and Back, 22U Rack Spacing Design with Protective-Vented Side Panels. Front and Real Rail Rack. No Door. Textured-Matte Black Finish. Holds AV/Networking Equipment up to 18-inches Deep.
- Front locking 3" Caster Wheels move easily on carpet. 1U Blank Panel is included. Dimensions Assembled: 18” x 20” x43” with wheels. Weight Capacity is 440lbs with wheels and 550lbs without wheels.
- This Standard 19" 22U Rack is Ideal for businesses, DJs, Sound Studios,home theaters with needs to organize Server/Network Equipment, Power Amplifiers, Microphones, DVD Players, Electronics etc. Compatible with ALL AxcessAbles rack drawers, shelves, rack accessories as well as all standard 19" rack accessories in the marketplace.
For a first API, follow the integration mode used by the tutorial rather than mixing configuration from HTTP API and REST API instructions. Their resources and setup flows are different.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallSet permissions and access controls carefully
Limit the Lambda execution role
Lambda needs permission to access the DynamoDB table and to write the logs needed for troubleshooting. Scope the function’s permissions to the specific table and actions it requires. The REST tutorial includes broad resource values in its demonstration policy; do not copy those as a production security recommendation. Review the role before deployment and remove permissions the function does not need.
Best Value
- Performance-Oriented and Quiet Hardware Design: 32GB ECC RAM | 8-Core 2.2GHz Intel Atom CPU | 12x 3.5” Hot-Swap SATA Drive Bays | 2x RJ45 10Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports | Remote Management (IPMI) | 2x USB 2.0 Ports - 1x USB 3.0 Port | 1x Internal Boot Device | Built-in RAID | Boost performance by adding SSDs for read and write caching.
- Ideal for file-sharing, backup, multimedia processing, transcoding, and distribution, video surveillance, edge/remote office, development, personal cloud, and other small/home office & SMB applications. Broaden your Mini’s capabilities with VMs and an extensive suite of software plugins.
- TrueNAS software supports Windows, MacOS, Linux, and Unix clients and syncs with AWS, Azure, Dropbox and more. Supports NFS, SMB, AFP, iSCSI and S3 file sharing protocols. Use TrueCommand to manage multiple TrueNAS systems from a single interface.
- Includes Short Rail Kit - 19" to 26.6" rackmount depth for short racks and optional rubber feet for desktop.
- Item Weight: 41.7 lbs
Do not treat API keys or quotas as security boundaries
AWS explicitly warns: “Don’t use API keys for authentication or authorization to control access to your APIs.” Its listed access-control options include IAM roles, Lambda authorizers, and Amazon Cognito. Choose an authorization method appropriate to the clients and data your API serves.
Usage-plan throttles and quotas are best-effort controls: clients may sometimes exceed them. AWS says not to rely on them to block access or control costs. For cost monitoring, AWS points to AWS Budgets; AWS WAF can help manage API requests. API Gateway can support controls such as authorization and throttling, but an API is not secure simply because it uses the gateway—configure the protections your use case requires.
Plan for cost and cleanup
The approximately 30-minute and Free Tier statements apply to AWS’s tutorial, not to every account or a continuously running workload. Check your account’s current Free Tier terms and service charges before deployment, and monitor actual usage. AWS recommends AWS Budgets for cost monitoring; usage-plan quotas and throttles are not hard spending limits.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsDelete tutorial resources you no longer need by following the cleanup instructions in the HTTP API tutorial or the REST API tutorial, depending on which path you followed. For a repeatable build, AWS identifies AWS SAM and CloudFormation as next steps for automating resource creation.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
