api-versioning

Implement versioned Rails 8 API namespaces and controllers with deprecation workflows.

Updated Mar 3, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/pelletencate/iron-horse --skill api-versioning-pelletencate
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: api-versioning
Source: https://github.com/pelletencate/iron-horse/tree/main/skills/api-versioning
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/pelletencate/iron-horse --skill api-versioning-pelletencate

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Evolving a Rails API without breaking existing clients is challenging. This skill provides a structured approach to implement API versioning with namespace-based routing, versioned controllers, and clear deprecation strategies to keep services stable while you iterate.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Namespace-based routing (e.g., Api::V1, Api::V2) to isolate changes.
  • Versioned controllers and shared base API logic to avoid duplicating models and serialization.
  • Deprecation and sunset processes with headers and docs to guide consumer migrations.
  • Example scenarios include adding v2 endpoints, forward-compatible changes, and deprecating older versions with clear timelines.

Quick Start

Implement a new Api::V2 namespace and the corresponding routes and controllers, and configure a deprecation plan for v1.

Frequently Asked Questions about api-versioning

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I implement API versioning in Rails 8 to prevent breaking changes?

API versioning in Rails 8 is implemented using namespace-based routing, such as Api::V1 and Api::V2, to isolate changes in versioned controllers. This prevents breaking changes by keeping existing endpoints stable while you iterate on newer versions.

What is the best way to deprecate older API endpoints in a Rails application?

The best way to deprecate older API endpoints is to establish a structured sunset process. This involves configuring deprecation headers and documentation with clear timelines to guide consumer migrations away from the deprecated version.

How do I add a new API version without duplicating my Rails controllers and models?

You can add a new API version without duplicating logic by using versioned controllers that inherit from a shared base API controller. This isolates route changes while maintaining consistent JSON contracts and shared serialization across versions.

Does Rails 8 namespace-based routing support forward-compatible API changes?

Yes, Rails 8 namespace-based routing supports forward-compatible API changes by isolating new logic in separate versioned namespaces. This allows you to introduce updates alongside existing endpoints without disrupting current clients.

When should I start versioning my Rails API routes?

You should start versioning your Rails API routes when you anticipate making changes that could break existing clients. Implementing namespaces and explicit sunset plans early ensures consistent error handling and smooth consumer migrations.