XML

XML stands to extensible mark up language. An XML file contains data as well as tags which describe the meaning of the data. Each item of data is surrounded by tags that described the purpose of that data; in turn sections of tags can surrounded by another set of tags allowing a larger piece of information to be communicated.

Some standard formats have been specified for the structure of XML files for specific purposes. It is possible to create any structure of file. XML files can typically be opened in Excel, when used to move data between systems each system must understand the structure of the data first.