Introduction
In this introductory section for XML, you will learn about its definition, features and how gaining knowledge about XML is a necessity for all the computer enthusiasts out there.
What is XML?
XML stands for Extensible Markup Language. It is a computer language that is used to describe data, store information, and transmit information. It is a complement to the HTML computer language, the Hypertext Markup Language, which is used in majority of the web pages across the internet. If HTML tells you how something should look then XML describes what it is. Both HTML and XML are going to be used extensively now and in the future of the internet.
Features of XML
There are a lot of neat features to take advantage of when using the XML computer language. Below are some of them:
- It is free! Who doesn't like free stuff? All you need is a text editor or word processor on your computer.
- It is innovative. You create your own tags.
- It is secure. You can send confidential information through XML without displaying it on HTML.
- It is compatible. Cross-platform capabilities make XML usable on several computers.
- It is accessible. Any computer capable of reading text can read an XML file.
- It can be packaged. You can embed and insert all sorts of data through XML files including scripts, images, sound, etcetera...
- It is recognized. Sun, Microsoft, SAP, IBM, and many other software giants support the XML format.
- It is international. XML follows the unicode international standard of text.
- It is very easy to learn. After this tutorial, you will already be capable of making your own XML files.
- XML has a bright future ahead. It is great to learn XML right now because you will be able to use it right away and on the long road ahead.
www.mercedes-benz.com, Mercedes-Benz's Fleetboard fleet management system uses XML technology to save costs on transportation. Their logistics operations have integrated browsers that communicate with each other using XML. Every time an order is processed, it is relayed to the information system immediately so that the freight forwarders can react in a timely manner. No more wasted gas and wasted time for these instant updates.
