.NET JSON Handling

Introduction to System.Text.Json

In .NET, JSON handling is facilitated by the System.Text.Json namespace, which provides a high-performance, low-memory allocation library for JSON serialization and deserialization. This library is an integral part of .NET Core and .NET 5+, offering a modern and efficient way to work with JSON data.

Basic Serialization and Deserialization

Serialization refers to the process of converting a .NET object into a JSON string, while deserialization refers to the process of converting a JSON string back into a .NET object. The System.Text.Json namespace provides the JsonSerializer class to perform these operations.

Handling JSON with Custom Options

The System.Text.Json library allows for customization of serialization and deserialization behavior through the JsonSerializerOptions class. This flexibility enables developers to control aspects such as property naming policies, ignoring null values, and writing indented JSON.

Advanced Features and Considerations

Beyond basic serialization and deserialization, System.Text.Json supports advanced features such as handling polymorphic types, custom converters for complex objects, and efficient UTF-8 encoding. These features make it a powerful tool for developers working with JSON in .NET applications.

When migrating from Newtonsoft.Json or other libraries, be aware of differences such as default settings and supported features. It's important to evaluate if System.Text.Json meets your application's specific needs, especially in terms of performance and memory usage.