What is the primary function of web services?

The primary function of web services is to enable communication between different software applications over the internet. They use standard protocols, such as HTTP, to exchange data regardless of the platforms or programming languages involved. This interconnectivity is essential for systems that need to integrate and share information dynamically, making it possible for applications to perform tasks using data and functionalities provided by other services.

Other options, while related to aspects of web technologies, do not encapsulate the primary purpose of web services. Storing data remotely pertains more to cloud storage solutions rather than the communication aspect of web services. Providing online tutorials falls into the realm of educational content delivered over the internet rather than the interactive data exchange between applications. Creating desktop applications refers to software development focused on local computing environments, which is distinct from the online service-oriented architecture that web services embody.