Data serialization is the process of converting structured data into a format that can be easily shared or stored, allowing for the recovery of its original structure later. This technique is essential in various applications, as it enables data to be transmitted over networks or saved in files while minimizing size for efficiency. Serialization can be performed in different styles, such as flat or nested, depending on the data’s complexity. Common formats for serialization include JSON and XML, which are human-readable, as well as binary formats that are not. Understanding serialization is crucial for effective data management and communication in software development.