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Everything about Serialization

Conversion process for computer data

In computing, serialization is the process of translating a data structure or object state into a format that can be stored or transmitted and reconstructed later. When the resulting series of bits is reread according to the serialization format, it can be used to create a semantically identical clone of the original object. For many complex objects, such as those that make extensive use of references, this process is not straightforward. Serialization of objects does not include any of their associated methods with which they were previously linked. Wikipedia →

🧭 Start here: a 6-step reading path

  1. Read the overview: SerializationA 5-minute orientation
  2. Skim a recent paper: Beyond JSON: Evaluating Serialization Formats for Space-Efficient CommunicationInfluential work since 2022
  3. Pick up a classic book: The A.B.C. MurdersThe most-reprinted book on the subject
  4. Read the landmark paper: JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) data serialization for IFC schema in web-based BIM data exchangeCited 94 times
  5. Go sideways: Marshalling (computer science)A closely related topic
  6. Go sideways: ASN.1A closely related topic

📖 Definitions

Noun The process or action of converting something in a serial or into serial form.

Noun The process of serializing.

🗂️ The subject at a glance

  1. Uses
  2. Drawbacks
  3. Serialization formats
  4. Programming language support

🏆 Landmark papers (most cited)

🆕 Influential since 2022

📚 Books worth reading

Ranked by number of editions on Open Library, a rough measure of how lasting a book is.

🔗 Related topics