Explain what is SOAP?

SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) is a communication protocol that facilitates the exchange of data over different networks. It is based on XML language that enables communication over different applications of Windows, Linux, etc. via the Internet. SOAP defines XML and HTTP messaging protocols and also uses the range of other protocols like FTP (File transfer protocol), SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol), POP3 (Post office protocol 3), etc. SOAP provides data transportation between web services and is used for broadcasting a message. It is a way to structure data prior to transmitting it.