Visual Basic .NET - Serialization in VB.NET (XML / JSON / Binary)

Serialization is the process of converting an object into a format that can be stored or transmitted. In VB.NET, serialization is commonly used to save data to files, send data over a network, or share information between applications. When needed, the data can be converted back into an object. This reverse process is called deserialization.

In simple terms, serialization allows you to take an object in your program and turn it into a storable format like XML, JSON, or binary. Later, you can reconstruct the same object from that stored data.

Why Serialization is Important

Serialization is useful in many real-world situations:

  • Saving application settings to a file

  • Storing user data in a database

  • Sending data between applications or web services

  • Backing up program data

Without serialization, objects exist only in memory while the program is running. Once the program closes, the data is lost unless it has been saved.

Types of Serialization in VB.NET

  1. XML Serialization
    XML serialization converts an object into XML format. XML is a structured, human-readable format. It is commonly used for configuration files and data exchange between systems.

    Advantages:

    • Easy to read and understand

    • Good for data sharing between different platforms

  2. JSON Serialization
    JSON serialization converts an object into JSON format. JSON is lightweight and widely used in web applications and APIs.

    Advantages:

    • Compact and faster than XML

    • Commonly used in web development

    • Easy to transmit over the internet

  3. Binary Serialization
    Binary serialization converts an object into a binary format. This format is not human-readable but is efficient in terms of size and speed.

    Advantages:

    • Faster performance

    • Smaller file size

    • Suitable for internal application storage

How Serialization Works Conceptually

Suppose you have a class:

Public Class Student
Public Property Name As String
Public Property Age As Integer
End Class

If you create an object of this class and serialize it:

  • XML serialization will store it in structured XML format.

  • JSON serialization will store it in JSON format.

  • Binary serialization will store it in compact binary form.

When you deserialize, the file data is converted back into a Student object with the same values.

Important Points to Remember

  • The class must usually be marked as serializable when using binary serialization.

  • XML serialization works best with public properties.

  • JSON serialization is commonly used in modern .NET applications.

  • Always handle exceptions during serialization to avoid data corruption.

  • Be careful when using binary serialization for security reasons.

Conclusion

Serialization is a powerful feature in VB.NET that allows objects to be saved, transferred, and restored. XML, JSON, and binary formats each have different advantages depending on the application. Understanding serialization is essential for building real-world applications that store or exchange data efficiently.