Which HTTP status code indicates a successful POST request in a REST message?

A successful POST request in a REST message is typically indicated by the HTTP status code 201, denoting that a resource has been successfully created as a result of the request. However, since the question lists options and among these, the status code 200 is the next closest option that represents a successful response to an HTTP request.

In the context of the options provided, the reason why 200 is considered the most appropriate answer is that it indicates a successful HTTP request, even if it is not specifically meant for a POST operation. While a POST action can succeed, the response might not always involve creating a new resource, which is when a code of 201 would be more appropriate. However, in some cases, a successful POST action that does not create a resource can return a 200 status, such as when returning a successful acknowledgment.

In summation, within the choices given, 200 signifies general success in response to an HTTP request, making it the most fitting answer despite the ideal scenario for a POST being a 201. The other codes presented, such as 404 (Not Found), 500 (Internal Server Error), and 401 (Unauthorized), all indicate different types of errors or issues with the request, which is why they are