Do You Really Need XML in 2025? When to Use It (and When Not To)

XML in 2025 – Still Relevant or Just Retro?

XML sounds like one of those tech terms from the early 2000s that probably should have stayed there. Maybe you heard about it in class, or saw it pop up when opening some weird-looking file in Notepad. You’re thinking, "Is this something I actually need to know, or is it just another academic concept that won’t help me in real life?" Fair question.

In a world of slick apps, JSON APIs, and AI-driven everything, XML feels like an awkward leftover. But here’s the truth: XML hasn’t disappeared. In fact, depending on what you’re doing — especially as a student building projects, dealing with academic data, or working on structured content — XML might quietly be the reliable backbone you didn’t realize you needed.

Image Credit: PostMan Blog

This blog is here to cut through the confusion. We’re not going to bore you with textbook definitions or make you feel bad for not being a full-stack wizard. We’re going to walk through:

• What XML is, in plain terms
• Why it still matters (sometimes)
• When you should absolutely NOT bother with it
• How to actually use it without losing your mind

What is XML — and Why Was It Even Invented?

XML (Extensible Markup Language) was born back in 1998 as a way to store and transport data. Think of it like HTML’s older, nerdier cousin. Where HTML tells a browser how to display content, XML focuses purely on describing content.

<student>
  <name>Lebo Dlamini</name>
  <studentID>2025245</studentID>
  <course>Information Systems</course>
</student>

How Is XML Different from HTML?

The Good Stuff — What XML Still Does Well in 2025

Despite all the tech evolution around us, XML isn’t dead. It’s just matured into a niche role. You might not use it every day, but when you do need it, nothing else does the job quite like XML.

Use Cases Where XML Shines:

• University transcripts and reporting systems
• Android UI layout files
• Config files for enterprise apps
• Digital library metadata

Use XML when:
- Data needs to be validated
- Different platforms must share the same structured dataset
- You’re working with legacy academic or public systems

Where XML Falls Short (And Why Some Devs Avoid It)

Okay, so XML is structured and dependable. But let’s be real: it can also be... clunky.

Cons of XML:

• It’s too verbose
• Steeper learning curve than JSON
• Overkill for simple use-cases

{
  "student": {
    "name": "Lebo Dlamini",
    "studentID": "2025245",
    "course": "Information Systems"
  }
}

That’s why JSON is the king when it comes to APIs and light front-end work.

XML vs JSON vs HTML — The Student-Friendly Breakdown

So… Do You Really Need XML in 2025?

You DO Need XML If You're:

• Working with LMS or e-learning tools
• Applying for internships that require XML-based resumes
• Building Android apps

You Don't Need XML If You're:

• Building a basic static website
• Only using JavaScript for the frontend
• Not working with structured data

“I used XML for my digital CV and it helped me land an internship.” — Naledi, CS Student

How to Actually Use XML Today (Without Going Mad)

You don’t need to be a wizard. Here’s the process:

1. Write content in HTML
2. Paste it into the Student Lodge HTML to XML tool
3. Validate it with an online tool
4. Use or submit your final file

<course>
  <name>Intro to Programming</name>
  <code>CS101</code>
  <credits>15</credits>
</course>

Future of XML — Is It Still Worth Learning?

Yes — especially if you’re in IT, backend development, education systems, or working with enterprise-grade apps.

• Android devs use it for layouts
• It’s common in gov and academic sectors
• It helps you understand data structuring overall

Conclusion: XML Isn’t Dead — Just Misunderstood

XML isn’t obsolete. It’s just not the hot topic anymore. For student projects, data-driven apps, and certain industries, XML is still your friend. Know when to use it, and how to use it well.

If you’re ever stuck, use the Student Lodge converter. That’s what we built it for!

BONUS: Student FAQs About XML