Data Serialization
Data serialization is the process of converting data structures or object states into a format that can be stored, transmitted, and reconstructed later. It transforms complex data into a byte stream or text format, enabling interoperability between different systems, languages, or platforms. Common serialization formats include JSON, XML, Protocol Buffers, and Avro.
Developers should learn data serialization for scenarios involving data persistence, network communication, or API development, as it ensures data integrity and efficient transfer. It is essential when saving application state to files, sending data over HTTP/RPC, or integrating microservices, as it provides a standardized way to encode and decode information. Mastery of serialization helps optimize performance and compatibility in distributed systems.