SOAP

SOAP, or simple object access protocol, is an Internet protocol that enables the exchange of web services and information via computer networks. SOAP messages are typically coded as extensible markup language (XML) while also utilizing other protocols (example: HTTP) in order to both transmit and convey the intended information. All communications protocols, including SOAP, are messages comprised of both data and specifications that enable the exchange of messages among and between various computer systems. These types of protocols define the grammar and language in which a message will be transmitted, and can communicate with either software or hardware. The SOAP protocol includes the following features:

• Provides infrastructure for a web services protocol stack.
• Notifies system(s) of basic messaging structure. After the systems are familiar with the basic messaging structure, programs can begin to exchange data in order to establish web services.