Develop web API applications using design patterns, advanced customization, and cutting-edge technologies, such as SignalR, gRPC, and GraphQL, while leveraging powerful cloud platforms and tools to accelerate developmentKey FeaturesGain proficiency in building modern ASP.NET Core web API applicationsDevelop the skills to effectively test, debug, and secure your web API applicationsStreamline development workflows and boost productivity with cloud computing platforms and industry-standard CI/CD toolsBook DescriptionWeb API applications have become increasingly significant in recent years, fueled by the ever-accelerating pace of technological advancements. However, with this rapid evolution comes a pressing challenge: the need to create web API applications that are not only functional but also adaptable, maintainable, and scalable to meet the demands of users and businesses alike. This book will help you address this challenge head-on, equipping you with the knowledge and skills required to develop web API applications from scratch.By providing a deeper understanding of the various protocols implemented by ASP.NET Core, including RESTful, SignalR (WebSocket), gRPC, and GraphQL, supplemented by practical examples and optimization techniques, such as using middleware, testing, caching, and logging, this book offers invaluable insights for both newcomers as well as seasoned developers to meet modern web development requirements. Additionally, you'll discover how to use cloud platforms such as Azure and Azure DevOps to enhance the development and operational aspects of your application.By the end of the book, you'll be fully prepared to undertake enterprise-grade web API projects with confidence, harnessing the latest advancements in ASP.NET Core 8 to drive innovation.What you will learnBuild a strong foundation in web API fundamentalsExplore the ASP.NET Core 8 framework and other industry-standard libraries and tools for high-performance, scalable web APIsApply essential software design patterns such as MVC, dependency injection, and the repository patternUse Entity Framework Core for database operations and complex query creationImplement robust security measures to protect against malicious attacks and data breachesDeploy your application to the cloud using Azure and leverage Azure DevOps to implement CI/CDWho this book is forThis book is for developers who want to learn how to build web APIs with ASP.NET Core and create flexible, maintainable, scalable applications with .NET platform. Basic knowledge of C#, .NET, and Git will assist with understanding the concepts more easily.About the AuthorXiaodi Yan is a seasoned software engineer with a proven track record in the IT industry. Since 2015, he has been awarded Microsoft MVP, showcasing his dedication to and expertise in .NET, AI, DevOps, and cloud computing. He is also a Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT), Azure Solutions Architect Expert, and LinkedIn Learning instructor. Xiaodi often presents at conferences and user groups, leveraging his extensive experience to engage and inspire audiences. Based in Wellington, New Zealand, he spearheads the Wellington .NET User Group, fostering a vibrant community of like-minded professionals. Connect with Xiaodi on LinkedIn to stay updated on his latest insights. Table of ContentsFundamentals of Web APIsGetting Started with ASP.NET Core Web APIsASP.NET Core Fundamentals (Part 1)ASP.NET Core Fundamentals (Part 2)Data Access in ASP.NET Core (Part 1: Entity Framework Core Fundamentals)Data Access in ASP.NET Core (Part 2: Entity Relationships)Data Access in ASP.NET Core (Part 3: Tips)Security and Identity in ASP.NET CoreTesting in ASP.NET Core (Part 1 - Unit Testing)Testing in ASP.NET Core (Part 2 - Integration Testing)Getting Started with gRPCGetting Started with GraphQLGetting Started with SignalRCI/CD for ASP.NET Core Using Azure Pipelines and GitHub ActionsASP.NET Core Web API Common PracticesError Handling, Monitoring, and ObservabilityCloud-Native PatternsLeveraging Open-Source Frameworks