API versioning ensures that developers can release improvements without disrupting applications already dependent on existing endpoints. It provides stability for consumers while allowing innovation and growth on the provider side.
URI Versioning – Adding a version number in the URL (e.g., /api/v1/users). Simple and widely used.
Query Parameter Versioning – Specifying the version as a query parameter (e.g., /api/users?version=2). Flexible but less common.
Header-Based Versioning – Indicating the version in the request header. Clean, but requires more documentation.
Content Negotiation (Media Type Versioning) – Using MIME types to specify API versions. Powerful but complex.
Always maintain backward compatibility as long as possible.
Communicate version deprecation timelines clearly.
Use semantic versioning for clarity (v1.1, v2.0).
Automate tests to ensure older versions remain functional.
By adopting the right versioning strategy, developers can balance innovation with stability, ensuring APIs evolve without breaking existing systems.
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