serialize

Serialize means to convert an in-memory data structure or object into a sequence of bytes or a textual representation that can be stored, transmitted, and later reconstructed through deserialization. Common formats include text-based ones like JSON, XML, and YAML, and binary ones such as Protocol Buffers, MessagePack, and Avro.

Serialization enables persistence, inter-process communication, network transmission, and caching by turning complex data into a portable form that can be stored or sent over a channel and later rebuilt.

Deserialization is the reverse operation. Security considerations are important: processing data from untrusted sources can allow attacks if deserialization is not restricted; best practices include using safe libraries, enforcing type and schema constraints, and validating data before reconstruction.

In publishing, serialize can also mean to publish a work in installments or to arrange items to appear in a series. The term derives from the notion of arranging material in a sequence.