Axios - DELETE Request With Request Body and Headers?

Performing secure operations with headers

When you're dealing with secure endpoints, it's all about making certain your request is authenticated. This often involves using authentication tokens. Here's a JavaScript code snippet on how to go about it:

// Prepare your headers. Don't forget your "cloak of invisibility" 😉
const secureHeaders = {
  Authorization: `Bearer your_auth_token_goes_here`
};

// Perform the DELETE operation. "Avada Kedavra" anyone? 🔮
axios.delete('/secure-endpoint', {
  data: { id: 12345 },
  headers: secureHeaders
});


Remember, the Authorization header works as your "cloak", providing access to restricted areas just like in the Wizarding World.

Confirming Axios version compatibility

Ensure that you are exploiting Axios v0.21.1 or newer versions as they provide support for sending a body with DELETE requests:

// To shout or to whisper, that is the question 🎭
console.log(`Axios version: ${axios.VERSION}`);
// Ensure to update Axios to the latest version if needed
// npm install axios@latest


Older versions may not recognize the data attribute for DELETE requests, causing potential misinterpretations or errors.

Constructing the DELETE request

Understanding the DELETE request's structure is invaluable as your included properties' placement might cause server-side discrepancies or confusion. The correct sequence should be:

// Let's build the perfect sandwich 🥪
{
  data: {/* Include your "meat" here (i.e the payload) */},
  headers: {/* Add some cheese and lettuce (i.e the headers) */}
}


Include this "delicious" construct as the second argument when making your axios.delete() call.

Advanced DELETE requests

Breaking conventions and embracing payloads

Not in line with the conventional HTTP beliefs, DELETE with a body is a possibility, sometimes even a necessity. For developers, this could be your key to discovering functionalities that you've never explored before:

// This is your chance to be the rulebreaker you've always wanted to be! 🏍️💨
axios.delete('/resource', { 
  data: { metadata: 'needs-expunging' },
  headers: { 'Content-Type': 'application/json' }
});


Understanding server expectations

Not all servers are designed to expect, or even accept a DELETE request with a body. Always ensure to go through your server-side requirements, or stay in touch with API developers who can enlighten you on the specifics of the endpoint:

// Like a two-faced friend, a server promises not to lie, but sometimes does 🙃
axios.delete('/endpoint', { data: { foo: 'bar' } })
  .catch(error => {
    if(error.response.status === 400) {
      console.log('Oops! The server does not accept a body for DELETE requests.');
    }
  });


Protection measures for sensitive data

DELETE requests often involve dealing with sensitive data, hence the emphasis on the need for higher security measures. Always use HTTPS and handle your data with precision and carefulness. Once a DELETE request has been sent, there's no coming back:

// HTTPS - like wrapping your package in bubble wrap before sending it into a storm 🌩️
axios.delete('https://secure.example.com/delete-account', { data: { accountId: 'abc123' } });


Automatic headers inclusion with interceptors

Axios interceptors offer automatic inclusion of headers, especially beneficial for repetitive tasks like appending access tokens across requests. Set up an interceptor once, let Axios handle the rest:

// Speaking of magic, ever wanted to have your very own house-elf for chores? 🧹
axios.interceptors.request.use(config => {
  config.headers.Authorization = `Bearer your_auth_token_here`;
  return config;
});

// Now, all DELETE requests will automatically be authenticated
axios.delete('/settings', { data: { theme: 'dark' } });


This results in cleaner code and reduces the risk of forgetting crucial headers.