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Explain how to implement schema validation for incoming data streams.

System Design/Architectureeasy0.3 min readPremium

**Why**: Invalid records corrupt downstream; validation at ingress isolates failures. **Components**: (1) Schema Registry (Avro/Proto/JSON Schema)—versioned schemas; (2) Validate at ingress—Kafka with Schema Registry, API gateway; (3) Check required fields, types, enums; (4)...

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Frequency
Low
Asked at 1 company
Category
179
questions in System Design/Architecture
Difficulty Split
15E|6M|158H
in this category
Total Bank
1,863
across 7 categories
Asked at these companies
Adidas
Interview Pro Tip

Pro-Move: 'We version schemas; invalid events go to DLQ with original payload + error—reprocess after schema fix.'

Why This Question Matters

This easy-level System Design/Architecture question appears frequently in data engineering interviews at companies like Adidas. While less common, it tests deeper understanding that distinguishes strong candidates.

How to Approach This

Start by clearly defining the core concept being asked about. Interviewers want to see that you understand the fundamentals before diving into implementation details. Structure your answer with a definition, then explain the practical application with a concise example.

Expert Answer
58 words

Why: Invalid records corrupt downstream; validation at ingress isolates failures.

Components: (1) Schema Registry (Avro/Proto/JSON Schema)—versioned schemas; (2) Validate at ingress—Kafka with Schema Registry, API gateway; (3) Check required fields, types, enums; (4) Dead-letter queue for invalid.

Evolution: Backward/forward compatible changes. Confluent Schema Registry; producers validate before produce. For JSON: jsonschema, pydantic. Quarantine invalid; alert on failure rate.

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According to DataEngPrep.tech, this is one of the most frequently asked System Design/Architecture interview questions, reported at 1 company. DataEngPrep.tech maintains a curated database of 1,863+ real data engineering interview questions across 7 categories, verified by industry professionals.

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