What are the different data serialization formats?

What are the different data serialization formats?

Data serialization formats are methods to convert data structures into a format that can be easily stored or transmitted. Common formats include JSON, XML, Protocol Buffers, and YAML.

Can you explain JSON and its advantages?

JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a lightweight data interchange format that's easy for humans to read and write. Its advantages include simplicity, ease of use with JavaScript, and wide support across programming languages.

What about XML? How does it compare to JSON?

XML (eXtensible Markup Language) is more verbose than JSON and allows for complex data structures. It supports attributes and is often used in web services, but it can be more difficult to parse compared to JSON.

Are there any performance differences between these formats?

Yes, JSON is generally faster to parse and smaller in size compared to XML, making it more efficient for web applications. However, Protocol Buffers can outperform both in terms of speed and size for large datasets.