Kotlin Serialization Guide

Kotlin Serialization is a cross-platform and multi-format framework for data serialization—converting trees of objects to strings, byte arrays, or other serial representations and back. Kotlin Serialization fully supports and enforces the Kotlin type system, making sure only valid objects can be deserialized.

Kotlin Serialization is not just a library. It is a compiler plugin that is bundled with the Kotlin compiler distribution itself. Build configuration is explained in README.md. Once the project is set up, we can start serializing some classes.

Introduction to serializers
Custom serializers
Simultaneous use of plugin-generated and custom serializers
Contextual serialization
- Serializers module
- Contextual serialization and generic classes
Deriving external serializer for another Kotlin class (experimental)
- External serialization uses properties

Chapter 4. Polymorphism

Closed polymorphism
Open polymorphism

Chapter 5. JSON Features

Json configuration
Json elements
Json transformations

Chapter 6. Alternative and custom formats (experimental)

CBOR (experimental)
ProtoBuf (experimental)
Properties (experimental)
Custom formats (experimental)

Appendix A. Serialization and value classes (IR-only)

Serializable value classes
Unsigned types support (JSON only)
Using value classes in your custom serializers

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