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Glossary · Other

XML

Extensible Markup Language

In plain language

A text format that labels data with tags so different programs can read the same file.

The metaphor

Like a form with labelled boxes: any clerk can find the name or the date because each box says what it holds.

Going deeper

How it works

  • Data sits between opening and closing tags that describe it.
  • Both people and programs can read it.
  • It is used in settings files, invoices and Microsoft Office documents.
  • Badly configured readers can be tricked by hostile files.
In practice
  • An export from the accounting package arrives as an XML file.
  • A word-processing document is a bundle of XML files inside.
  • An e-commerce platform sends orders to a shipping tool as XML.

A question owners ask

Do I need to open these files?

Usually not. Programs read them. If one is sent to you unexpectedly, treat it like any other attachment.

Related terms
AIArtificial IntelligenceBASHBourne Again ShellCMSContent Management SystemDLLDynamic Link LibraryHTMLHypertext Markup LanguageIEEEInstitute of Electrical and Electronics EngineersIMInstant MessagingMLMachine Learning

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