Editor's note
I curated a mixed lineup this issue, with practical guidance alongside a few broader ecosystem pieces. The serializer comparison and the EF Core distinct/orderby warning are especially useful because they can prevent real production mistakes.
JSON serializers, MAUI, and EF Core pitfalls
Jasen Fici
February 18, 2025
Ah, Tuesday—the thinking developer’s oasis. As you sip on a well-brewed cup of knowledge, let’s navigate through today’s .NET landscape like a classic road trip in your favorite vintage car: smooth, scenic, and refreshingly insightful. This isn't just about the landmarks; it's about those hidden gems that'll make your code shine. So, buckle up and prepare to uncover paths that only the seasoned traveler can truly appreciate.
Today's Articles
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Jasen's take on today's picks
Newtonsoft.Json vs. System.Text.Json: Picking the Right JSON Serializer for Your .NET Project
A practical serializer comparison that helps you choose between Newtonsoft.Json and System.Text.Json without guesswork.
Why .NET MAUI is the Future of App Development
A straightforward MAUI article that argues the platform's case for cross-platform .NET app development.
ADO.NET vs Entity Framework: Understanding the Differences
A clear reminder that ADO.NET and EF still solve different problems, especially when control or abstraction matters.
Boosting Performance with Lazy Loading in C# .NET Core
Lazy loading can improve perceived performance, but it deserves careful measurement before it becomes a default.
GraphQL is explained at a high level here, making it a useful refresher if you're evaluating API shapes.
Understanding the Override Function in C#
A quick C# refresher on override semantics, handy for newer developers and anyone teaching the basics.
The Hidden Cost of String Parameters
This one focuses on string parameter costs, a good reminder that small API choices can have measurable overhead.
Optimize Your C# Code: Using Benchmark.NET to Identify Performance Bottlenecks
Benchmark.NET gets the spotlight for finding bottlenecks instead of relying on intuition or micro-optimizations.
Role of Delegates in C# Programming
Delegates are covered from the fundamentals, which makes this a solid concept check for everyday C# work.
Safe Access to Nullable Properties
Nullable property access is handled with practical safety patterns that reduce avoidable runtime surprises.
Announcing Generative AI for Beginners – .NET
Microsoft's beginner-friendly generative AI .NET announcement is a good on-ramp if you're exploring that stack.
A broad ecosystem overview that can help newer developers connect the dots across the .NET landscape.
Be Careful Using Distinct and OrderBy in EF Core Queries
The EF Core warning is worth reading if you combine Distinct and OrderBy, because query shape can change results.
Running C# Jobs with Windows Task Scheduler: Automate Your Workflow Like a Pro
Windows Task Scheduler shows up as a simple automation option for jobs that don't need a heavier orchestration stack.
Reduce NULL Storage in SQL Server with Sparse Columns
Sparse columns are a classic SQL Server optimization and still useful when lots of NULLs waste space.
Java vs. C#: The Clear Choice for Enterprise Programming in 2025
The Java-versus-C# comparison is more opinionated than technical, but it reflects how .NET is positioned in enterprise conversations.
Understanding Host in the ASP.NET Core
A clear host overview that should help make ASP.NET Core startup and runtime behavior less mysterious.
Understanding the Interface Segregation Principle (ISP) in C#
The ISP piece is a clean SOLID refresher that reinforces why smaller interfaces usually lead to better design.
How do you handle routing in ASP.NET Core?
Routing in ASP.NET Core is covered in a practical way, which is useful whether you're building minimal APIs or MVC apps.