API Versioning
API versioning is a software development practice that involves managing changes to an application programming interface (API) over time to maintain backward compatibility and prevent breaking existing client applications. It allows developers to introduce new features, fix bugs, or modify endpoints without disrupting users who rely on older versions of the API. Common strategies include using version numbers in URLs, headers, or media types to differentiate between API iterations.
Developers should implement API versioning when building public or long-lived APIs to ensure stability and predictability for consumers, especially in microservices architectures or third-party integrations. It is crucial for handling breaking changes, such as altering response formats or removing endpoints, without forcing all clients to update simultaneously. This practice reduces downtime, improves user experience, and supports gradual migration paths in enterprise or cloud-based systems.