Most REST APIs deliver fixed endpoints with rigid filters, but what if your clients could shape the data they need without dozens of bespoke query parameters? In this practical, eye-opening session, you'll discover how OData allows you to build flexible, discoverable, and queryable APIs using the full power of .NET and ASP.NET Core.

We’ll start by breaking down what OData is (and isn’t), then dive into how to implement OData in modern .NET applications. You’ll learn to expose APIs that enable clients to use $filter, $expand, $orderby, and more, facilitating smarter queries, reducing payloads, and giving front-end developers superpowers.

However, this talk goes beyond the basics. We'll explore real-world performance strategies, how to integrate OData cleanly with EF Core, and the architectural decisions behind when (and when not) to use it. If you’re building APIs that deal with complex or hierarchical data, this session will help you architect for flexibility and future scalability.

Who Should Attend:
• .NET developers building or maintaining data-rich REST APIs
• Backend engineers looking for more flexible querying without writing dozens of endpoints
• API architects and tech leads focused on reusability, performance, and long-term maintainability
• Front-end or mobile developers interested in shaping API responses more precisely

Key Takeaways:
• What OData really is and how it enhances API capabilities
• How to add OData to an ASP.NET Core Web API and expose EF Core data with rich query support
• Real-world use of $filter, $orderby, $top, $expand, and more
• Best practices for securing, optimizing, and documenting OData APIs
• When to use OData and when it might be the wrong fit
• Performance tips: pagination, caching, and server-side limits