Serialization is the process of converting an object or data structure into a format that can be easily stored or transmitted. This format can be a byte stream, a string, or a file, allowing the data to be saved to a disk or sent over a network. When the data is needed again, it can be deserialized, meaning it is converted back into its original structure. Common uses of serialization include saving the state of an application, sending data between a client and a server, or storing complex data types in databases. Popular serialization formats include JSON, XML, and Protocol Buffers, each with its own advantages and use cases.