Quick Answer
Correlation IDs for request tracing: generate a UUID per request in middleware (or read from X-Correlation-Id header if sent by client). Add to HttpContext.Items and to the log context (Serilog LogContext.PushProperty). Include in all outgoing HTTP calls via HttpClient handler. Return in X-Correlation-Id response header so clients can reference it in support requests. Links logs across all services for one user request.
Answer
Correlation IDs enable tracking a request across microservices:
Generate or read a CorrelationId header in middleware.
Pass it to downstream services and logs.
Use logging scopes so all log entries share the same ID.
Send correlationId in the API response for client troubleshooting.
Critical for debugging distributed API flows.
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.
