SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) is a protocol for exchanging structured information in web services implementation. It relies on XML for message format and usually relies on other application layer protocols, such as HTTP or SMTP, for message negotiation and transmission.
How does SOAP differ from REST?
SOAP differs from REST in that SOAP is a protocol with strict standards and relies on XML for message formatting, while REST is an architectural style that uses various formats like JSON and XML and is more flexible and easier to implement.
What are the advantages of using SOAP?
Advantages of using SOAP include built-in error handling, standardized protocol with strict rules, and support for various transport protocols, making it suitable for enterprise-level web services that require high security and transaction integrity.
What are common use cases for SOAP?
Common use cases for SOAP include financial services, telecommunications, and any application that requires secure, reliable transactions and compliance with strict standards and protocols.