Get Started with Buf: Tutorials, CLI, and the Buf Schema Registry (BSR)

Want to master Protobuf files and APIs with Buf? This guide dives into the essentials using the bufbuild/buf-tour repository. Learn about the Buf CLI, BSR, and how to lint and detect breaking changes in your code.

What is the Buf Tour Repository?

The bufbuild/buf-tour repository on GitHub contains example code for Buf tutorials, designed to help you learn how to use Buf effectively. It's a great resource for developers looking to improve their Protobuf workflows.

Key Features of the Buf CLI

The Buf CLI is a powerful tool for working with Protobuf files. The Buf CLI tour teaches you to:

Generate code: Automatically create code based on your Protobuf definitions.
Detect breaking changes: Identify changes that could break compatibility.
Lint and format: Ensure consistent and high-quality Protobuf files.

Explore the Buf Schema Registry (BSR)

The Buf Schema Registry (BSR) simplifies dependency management and code sharing. With the BSR tour, you will:

Create and publish modules: Share your Protobuf definitions with others.
Manage dependencies: Easily incorporate external Protobuf schemas.
Use generated SDKs: Access pre-built SDKs for various languages.

BSR Screenshot

Breaking Change Detection: Ensuring Compatibility

Avoid unexpected issues by learning how to detect breaking changes. The breaking change detection tutorial guides you through common use cases for identifying and resolving potential compatibility problems in your APIs.

Code Linting: Maintaining Protobuf Quality

Ensure your Protobuf files adhere to best practices with the code linting tutorial. Using the Buf CLI's linter helps maintain forward compatibility and code quality across your projects.

Diving Deeper into Buf Resources

Interested in exploring Buf further? Here's how to explore the bufbuild/buf-tour repository and other Buf resources:

GitHub Repository: Check out the bufbuild/buf-tour repo for source code.
Buf Documentation: Consult the official Buf documentation for in-depth information.
Community: Engage with the Buf community to get support and share your knowledge.

Key Features of the Buf CLI