What does SOAP stand for?

SOAP stands for Simple Object Access Protocol. This is a protocol used for exchanging structured information in the implementation of web services in computer networks. It is designed to facilitate communication between applications over a network, enabling them to communicate in a standardized way regardless of the programming languages or platforms they are built on. SOAP uses XML to encode its messages, ensuring that the information can be easily understood and processed by diverse systems.

The term "Simple" signifies that the protocol is designed to be straightforward in its usage, while "Object Access" points to its focus on allowing access to objects in a manner that is both uniform and systematic. "Protocol" indicates that it follows a defined set of rules governing how data is transmitted, establishing a reliable framework for inter-system communication.

Other options, such as Systematic Online Access Protocol and Structured Object Application Protocol, do not align with the standard definition of SOAP and do not reflect its purpose or the technological context in which it is used. Similarly, Simple Operating Application Protocol is not recognized within the realm of web service communications, further affirming the uniqueness and validity of "Simple Object Access Protocol" as the correct choice.