What is serialization and how does it work in different programming languages?

What is serialization and how does it work in different programming languages?

Serialization is the process of converting an object into a format that can be easily stored or transmitted. Different programming languages have their own methods for serialization. For example, in Python, you can use the pickle module, while in Java, you can use the Serializable interface.

Can you explain how JSON is used for serialization?

JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a lightweight data interchange format that's easy for humans to read and write. In many languages, JSON is used for serialization because it allows objects to be converted into a string format that can be easily sent over a network or stored in a file.

What are the advantages of using XML for serialization?

XML (eXtensible Markup Language) is highly structured and supports complex data types. Its advantages include self-descriptiveness, platform independence, and the ability to validate data against a schema.

Are there any performance considerations when choosing a serialization method?

Yes, performance can vary significantly between serialization methods. For instance, binary formats like Protocol Buffers are generally faster and more compact than text-based formats like JSON or XML, but they may be less human-readable.