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What is Content Negotiation in Web API?

Entry ASP.NET Web API
Quick Answer Content Negotiation lets the client specify what format it wants (JSON, XML) via the Accept header. The server checks available output formatters and picks the best match. ASP.NET Core includes JSON formatter by default. Add XML: services.AddControllers().AddXmlSerializerFormatters(). If no match: returns default format (406 Not Acceptable if configured strictly).

Answer

Content negotiation selects the response format based on:

  • Client's Accept header
  • Configured formatters (JSON, XML)

ASP.NET Core defaults to JSON.

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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.

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