How to replace DataContractResolver in Web Api stack?

Question

There are a lof of different ways to replace the DataContractResolver if you are using WCF, I want to do the same thing with the Web Api. The only extension point I've found is this:

GlobalConfiguration.Configuration.Formatters.XmlFormatter.SetSerializer<Person>(new DataContractSerializer(typeof(Person), null, Int32.MaxValue, false, false, null, new TypeNameVersioning()));

I am looking for something in the line of (pseudo code):

GlobalConfiguration.Configuration.Formatters.XmlFormatter.SetDataContractResolver = new TypeNameVersioning();

Answer 1

If you want to use the XmlSerializer then

GlobalConfiguration.Configuration.Formatters.XmlFormatter.UseXmlSerializer = true

If that doesn't meet your needs then do

GlobalConfinguration.Configuration.Formatters.Clear();
GlobalConfinguration.Configuration.Formatters.Add(new YourOwnFormatterCanGoHere());

Just one other point. I use Web API all the time and have for several years now and I rarely use formatters at all. I return HttpResponseMessage with derived versions of HttpContent. Not saying you should do the same, just saying there are many ways of doing things in Web API. Formatters are not required.