Description: JSON, which stands for JavaScript Object Notation, is a lightweight data interchange format that is easy for humans to read and write. It is primarily used to transmit data between a server and a web application as text. Its structure is based on key-value pairs, allowing complex data to be represented in a simple and understandable way. JSON is language-independent, meaning it can be used across multiple programming languages, including JavaScript, Python, Java, and many more. This format has gained popularity due to its simplicity and efficiency, facilitating communication between different systems and platforms. Additionally, its compatibility with data structures like lists and objects makes it a versatile option for storing and transmitting information.
History: JSON was created by Douglas Crockford in the 2000s as a data interchange format that could be used in web applications. Its design is based on the syntax of JavaScript objects, but it has become an independent standard that is widely adopted in the software industry. In 2013, JSON was standardized as ECMA-404 and later as ISO/IEC 21778:2017, which solidified its use in various applications and programming languages.
Uses: JSON is primarily used for data transmission between a server and a client in web applications. It is also common in RESTful APIs, where it is used to send and receive data in a structured format. Additionally, JSON is used in application configurations, data storage, and in communication between microservices.
Examples: A practical example of JSON is the representation of a user object: {“name”: “John”, “age”: 30, “city”: “Madrid”}. This object can be easily sent through an API or stored in a file. In various programming environments, similar methods or libraries can be used to convert data to JSON format.
