What is XML primarily used for?

XML, which stands for Extensible Markup Language, is primarily used for structuring data and documents. This format allows users to define their own tags, enabling the creation of customized data formats that can be easily read and understood by both humans and machines. Its flexibility makes it an ideal choice for representing complex data structures, such as those found in web services, data storage, and configuration files.

In addition, XML provides a hierarchical structure, which helps in organizing data in a meaningful manner. This is particularly beneficial in applications where data exchange is necessary, as it allows for a standardized way to represent and transmit information across different systems. By using XML, developers can create documents that are independent of any specific software or hardware, ensuring better interoperability between different applications and platforms.

Understanding the primary function of XML is crucial, as it aids in data representation and exchange rather than enhancing database performance, defining programming languages, or creating user interfaces. While these tasks have their own specific technologies and methods tailored to their needs, XML excels uniquely in structuring and organizing data.