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go-yaml

The YAML library for Go that powers Kubernetes and the cloud native ecosystem.


Overview

go-yaml is the de facto standard YAML library for the Go programming language. It powers some of the most critical infrastructure in modern technology.

  • Repository: github.com/yaml/go-yaml
  • Module: go.yaml.in/yaml/v4
  • Language: Go
  • License: Apache-2.0 / MIT
  • Maintainer: The YAML Company

Why go-yaml Matters

Powers Critical Infrastructure

go-yaml is the YAML parsing engine behind:

  • Kubernetes - Cluster configurations, pod definitions, services
  • Helm - Package management for Kubernetes
  • Kustomize - Kubernetes configuration management
  • Docker Compose - Container orchestration

Massive Scale

  • 100M+ downloads per month via Go modules
  • Used by the majority of Go applications that handle YAML
  • Critical dependency for cloud native infrastructure
  • No viable alternatives in the Go ecosystem

Battle-Tested

  • Years of production use at massive scale
  • Proven reliability in mission-critical systems
  • Extensive test coverage
  • Active security maintenance

The YAML Company Maintenance

Under The YAML Company's stewardship, go-yaml receives:

Security First

  • Regular security audits
  • Rapid response to vulnerability reports
  • Clear communication about security issues
  • YES members get 48-hour early security notifications

Active Development

  • Bug fixes and improvements
  • Performance optimizations
  • Compatibility with YAML 1.2 specification
  • New features as the ecosystem evolves

Professional Support

  • Responsive to issues and pull requests
  • Clear roadmap and development priorities
  • Documentation improvements
  • Integration support for enterprise users

Maintenance & Accountability

go-yaml is professionally maintained by The YAML Company, led by Ingy döt Net, co-creator of YAML.

  • Security contact: security@yaml.com
  • Disclosure policy: Coordinated disclosure with advance notice to YES members
  • Release cadence: Security patches prioritized, feature releases quarterly

Need supply chain documentation for compliance? Learn about the YES Program →


Support go-yaml

go-yaml is maintained through the YES Program. YES members get:

  • Priority support for go-yaml issues
  • Early notification of security vulnerabilities
  • Influence over roadmap and feature development
  • Direct access to maintainers

Join the YES Program →


Resources