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SEARCH

request-target HTTP/1.1

Runs a server-side query described in the request body against a resource, in WebDAV.

SafeYes
IdempotentYes
CacheableNo
Defined inRFC 5323, Section 2
Updated2026-10-14

What is the SEARCH method?

The SEARCH method is a WebDAV extension (RFC 5323) used by clients to send a query in the request body and have the server return matching resources, without changing any state.

API Usage & Best Practices

  • Query in the body: Unlike GET, SEARCH carries its query in the request body, allowing rich, structured criteria.
  • Read-only and repeatable: SEARCH is safe and idempotent, so repeating a query has no side effects on the server and it can be retried freely. The results can still change between calls as the underlying data changes.
  • Know the overlap: SEARCH overlaps with the QUERY method, standardized in RFC 10008 as the general-purpose safe, idempotent read with a body. Outside WebDAV, use QUERY rather than SEARCH.

Common Response Codes

  • 200 OK: The query succeeded and results are returned in the body.
  • 207 Multi-Status: Per-resource results are returned for a WebDAV-style search.
  • 422 Unprocessable Content: The query body was well-formed but could not be understood or executed.

Common response codes

3

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