What are the different serialization methods and their performance?

What are the different serialization methods and how do they compare in terms of performance?

There are several serialization methods like JSON, XML, Protocol Buffers, and Avro. JSON is human-readable but slower, while Protocol Buffers are faster and more efficient.

Can you explain why Protocol Buffers are faster than JSON?

Protocol Buffers use a binary format which is more compact than JSON's text format, leading to faster serialization and deserialization.

Are there any scenarios where JSON might be preferred over Protocol Buffers?

Yes, JSON is often preferred for web APIs due to its readability and ease of use, especially when human interaction is involved.

What about XML? How does it compare to JSON and Protocol Buffers?

XML is more verbose than JSON and generally slower than both JSON and Protocol Buffers, but it offers features like schema validation and namespaces.