XML API
An XML API is an application programming interface that uses XML (eXtensible Markup Language) as the data format for communication between systems. It enables structured data exchange over networks, typically via HTTP, and is commonly used in web services, configuration files, and data interchange between heterogeneous systems. XML APIs often rely on standards like SOAP, REST with XML payloads, or custom XML-based protocols.
Developers should learn XML APIs when working with legacy systems, enterprise applications, or industries like finance and healthcare where XML is a mandated standard. They are essential for integrating with SOAP-based web services, parsing configuration files (e.g., in Java or .NET projects), or handling data feeds that require structured, self-describing formats. XML APIs provide interoperability across different platforms and languages due to XML's widespread support.