XML
XML (Extensible Markup Language) is a markup language that defines a set of rules for encoding documents in a format that is both human-readable and machine-readable. It is widely used for storing and transporting data across different systems and platforms, providing a flexible way to create structured information. XML documents consist of elements defined by tags, attributes, and text, allowing for hierarchical data representation.
Developers should learn XML when working with data interchange, configuration files, web services (like SOAP), or document storage where structured, platform-independent data is required. It is essential in scenarios involving legacy systems, enterprise applications, and standards like RSS feeds or SVG graphics, as it ensures interoperability and data integrity across diverse environments.