Yes, it is perfectly fine to receive a 204 No Content response when using the HTTP PATCH method. This status code indicates that the server has successfully processed the request, but there is no content to return in the response body. This is often used when an update operation (such as a PATCH) is performed, and there is no need to return any additional information to the client.
Understanding 204 No Content
The 204 No Content response is defined in the HTTP/1.1 specification (RFC 7231, Section 6.3.5). It is typically used in scenarios where the server successfully processes a request but does not need to send any payload in the response.
When to Use 204 No Content
Successful Updates: When a resource is updated successfully and there is no additional information to send back to the client.
No Response Needed: When the client does not need any further data after the operation is completed.
Efficient Communication: To minimize bandwidth usage by not sending unnecessary response bodies.
Example Scenario with PATCH
Consider a scenario where you are updating a user's profile information using a PATCH request. The server processes the update and confirms that it has been applied. However, the server does not need to return any additional information. In this case, a 204 No Content response is appropriate.
Example Request and Response
PATCH Request:
PATCH /users/123 HTTP/1.1Host: example.comContent-Type: application/jsonAuthorization: Bearer your-token{ "email": "newemail@example.com"}
204 No Content Response:
HTTP/1.1 204 No ContentBenefits of Using 204 No Content
Clarity: It clearly indicates that the request was successful but no content is returned.
Efficiency: Reduces unnecessary data transfer over the network.
Simplicity: Simplifies client-side logic by not requiring handling of response bodies for successful updates.
Summary
Receiving a 204 No Content response in a PATCH method is normal and indicates that the update operation was successful with no further content to return. This is a standard and efficient way to handle successful updates where no additional data needs to be communicated to the client.