Use of XML in the .NET Framework

Abstract

Up until now, you have learned how to work with your own XML data. This includes reading, writing, validating, serializing, and querying XML data. However, Microsoft has used XML extensively in the .NET Framework. The most significant area where XML is used extensively is in application configuration. Further, ASP.NET makes heavy use of XML for representing server controls and data binding. Understanding the use of XML in the .NET Framework is therefore essential for any .NET developer. This chapter introduces you to many of these features. Specifically, you will learn about the following topics:

• • Remoting

• • How XML is used in a remoting configuration

• • ASP.NET server controls

• • Use of XML in representation of server controls

• • The XML data source control

• • Navigational controls of ASP.NET such as TreeView, Menu, and SiteMap

• • The XML server control

• • Website configuration files and XML