Introduction to WordPress JSON API

The WordPress JSON API is a powerful tool that enables developers to interact with a WordPress site through JSON data. It is part of the WordPress REST API, which provides a flexible way to access your site’s data, including posts, pages, and custom content types, using HTTP requests.

Activating the API

To use the JSON API in WordPress, you must ensure that the REST API feature is enabled. This feature is activated by default in versions 4.7 and above. You can interact with the API directly through the URL https://example.com/wp-json/wp/v2/ where ‘example.com’ is your domain.

Using Plugins to Extend Capabilities

While the default REST API provides extensive functionality, specific plugins such as JSON API and WP REST API can extend these capabilities further, allowing additional customization and control over the API endpoints.

Practical Applications

This API is particularly useful for developers building applications that need to interact asynchronously with the WordPress backend. It’s also excellent for those looking to build mobile apps or advanced JavaScript web apps that require backend WordPress data.

Examples and Documentation

To get started with coding, you can refer to the extensive documentation available at the WordPress Codex or the WP REST API Handbook. Exploring examples and testing different endpoint combinations can help solidify your understanding of this powerful API.