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What Is cURL? Command-Line HTTP Tool Explained
cURL is a command-line tool and library (libcurl) for transferring data over HTTP, HTTPS, and other protocols. Developers use it to test APIs, reproduce browser requests, and share exact HTTP calls in documentation.
Common cURL Flags
-X sets the HTTP method (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE). -H adds request headers. -d sends a request body. -u provides basic auth. -b sends cookies. -L follows redirects.
Copy as cURL from DevTools
In Chrome or Firefox DevTools, open the Network tab, right-click a request, and choose Copy → Copy as cURL. Paste into the cURL Converter to generate fetch, Python, Java, PHP, or other language code.
cURL vs HTTP Libraries
cURL is ideal for quick testing and sharing reproducible requests. Application code typically uses language HTTP clients (fetch, requests, HttpClient, OkHttp) with error handling and retries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cURL the same on Windows and macOS?
Syntax is mostly the same. Windows may use curl.exe with slightly different quoting. DevTools exports bash-style cURL which works with this converter.
Can I convert cURL to Java or PHP?
Yes. DevWizKit's cURL Converter supports Java HttpClient, PHP cURL, C#, Ruby, Rust, Go, Swift, Kotlin, PowerShell, and more.