When I deploy an API or start developing a new feature on an existing one, versioning is always one of the first issues that comes to mind. In the software I develop or for a client project, when I add a new feature or change an existing field, it's critically important that mobile applications or integrated systems using the old version continue to function. This isn't just a technical preference; it's an operational necessity.

In this post, I'll discuss API versioning strategies for REST and GraphQL APIs based on my years of experience, examining them comparatively. Both approaches have their own advantages and disadvantages. I'll explain which strategy I choose in which situation and why.

Why is API Versioning Necessary?

APIs are like the main arteries of the software world. A backend service, a mobile application, or another microservice communicates through these APIs.…