The difference between simple_request and request is documented. {grin}

However, in brief, simple_request makes a request, and you get the response. That's it. It's a complete response. Nothing funny about it.

But if the response is a 3xx style response, asking for more information (for authentication), or redirecting to a different location, then request transparently handles that for you if it can.

So, for most people, request is the right choice, but for link checking and such, simple_request is right.

-- Randal L. Schwartz, Perl hacker