Preference of HTTP Server

Question

I am trying my hand in server applications using Indy Internet tools.

My client sends Post data (XML) in Unicode format.

Can I convey my preference to client (HTTP Client). I prefer Text. In general can a HTTP server send its preferences to its Clients?

Thanks for any hint or help.

Answer 1

The problem with this is the fact, that with only one POST the server has no way to respond, until the client has already sent the data.

The solution is to make two calls: One where the client asks for the server preferences and another to send the data. The OPTIONS HTTP method can be used for this scenario.

You can handle both requests on the same URL: If the clients makes an OPTIONS request the server responds with the configuration data. (via response headers) Then the client can make a POST request on the same URL and the server handles the data appropriately.

For further information see HTTP methods and HTTP headers, especially the Accept header.