Understand ZIP format and JSON format

Any request can be made in either of two formats: ZIP format and JSON format.

These formats differ only in how they import and export configuration. All configuration, however exported or imported, is written in JSON code.

The following table summarizes the differences between JSON format and ZIP format.

Format	Input and output	HTTP methods	Best uses
JSON	JSON content specified in command line or utility, or In JSON files.	GET POST PUT PATCH	Exporting configuration for viewing, or Configuring resources.
ZIP	In ZIP files that contain JSON files.	GET POST	Exporting configuration for backup and migration, or Configuring resources.