How to Post JSON Serialized Data in ASP.NET Core Web API

Learn how to effectively post JSON serialized data to your database in ASP.NET Core Web API. Follow our step-by-step guide to encapsulate essential data within your model.
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Unlocking the Power of JSON Serialization in ASP.NET Core Web API

In the world of modern web applications, the need to store and manage data efficiently is crucial. ASP.NET Core Web API provides the perfect framework for building robust web services that can seamlessly handle data interactions. However, many developers struggle with the integration of JSON serialized data into their databases. In this post, we'll explore a common challenge and provide a clear solution to posting JSON serialized data embedded in your model.

The Challenge: Posting JSON Serialized Data

Imagine you're working on a financial application that requires keeping track of various loan types, their amounts, and the number of installments. You have set up a model called LoanInfoVM, which includes information such as:

LoanType: The type of loan

LoanAmount: The total amount of the loan

Installments: The number of payments required

You also want to add additional data in the LoanData field, which consists of a JSON string containing the serialized versions of LoanType, LoanAmount, and Installments. Here’s where the difficulty lies: while you can insert the LoanType, LoanAmount, and Installments into the database, how do you also include the serialized JSON data in LoanData?

The Solution: Modifying Your Mapper

To resolve this, you'll need to make a simple modification to your EntityMapper, which is responsible for translating between your view model (LoanInfoVM) and the database entity model (LoanInfo). Here's how you can do it:

Updated EntityMapper Class

In the EntityMapper class, you previously had the following code:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

To ensure that LoanData is filled with the serialized JSON content, modify it to include LoanData as shown below:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Key Changes Made

We directly assign the result of JsonSerializer.Serialize(loan) to the LoanData property.

Ensure you use the correct reference to the new object name loanInfo to avoid any confusion.

Implementation in the LoanService

Once the changes are made in the mapper, you can implement it in your LoanService method. The Post method will now work with the updated mapping, which includes the serialized data when you call it:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Final Thoughts

With this simple yet effective modification in your mapper, you can now successfully serialize your LoanData and store it alongside other important loan information in your database. This not only ensures that essential details are captured but also empowers you to take full advantage of JSON's versatility for data management within your models.

Feel free to experiment further, and extend your API as your application evolves. Happy coding!