Quick Answer
Maintain API backward compatibility: never remove or rename existing fields - add new optional fields instead. Use Expand-Contract migration pattern for breaking changes. Add new optional query parameters without removing old ones. Document deprecated fields with [Obsolete] comments in Swagger. Version the entire API when breaking changes are unavoidable. Run contract tests (Pact) to catch accidental breaking changes.
Version APIs instead of modifying existing contracts.
Deprecate older versions gradually with communication.
Use DTOs to control exposed data without altering entities.
Document breaking changes and provide migration guides.
Avoid removing fields abruptly; mark them as deprecated first.
S
SugharaIQ Editorial Team
Verified Answer
This answer has been peer-reviewed by industry experts holding senior engineering roles to ensure technical accuracy and relevance for modern interview standards.
