SOAP API
SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) API is a protocol for exchanging structured information in web services using XML. It defines a standard messaging format and relies on other application layer protocols like HTTP, SMTP, or TCP for message transmission. SOAP APIs are known for their strict standards, built-in error handling, and support for complex operations, making them suitable for enterprise-level applications.
Developers should learn SOAP API when working in enterprise environments that require high security, reliability, and transactional support, such as financial services, healthcare, or legacy systems. It is particularly useful for scenarios needing ACID compliance, stateful operations, or integration with systems that mandate WS-* standards like WS-Security for encryption and digital signatures.