What is the difference between HTML and XHTML?

HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) and XHTML (Extensible Hypertext Markup Language) are both markup languages used to structure and present content on the web. While they share similarities, there are key differences between the two. In this blog post, web design company in Bangladesh will explore the distinctions between HTML and XHTML, discussing their syntax, compatibility, parsing, and more.

HTML and XHTML both follow the same basic principles of using tags to define elements and attributes to provide additional information about those elements. They allow web developers to create structured documents that can be rendered by web browsers. However, the key difference lies in their syntax and adherence to XML (eXtensible Markup Language) standards.

HTML, particularly HTML 4, is a more lenient and forgiving markup language. It allows for flexibility in syntax and permits certain errors or inconsistencies. This flexibility can be advantageous for beginners or in situations where compatibility with older web browsers is necessary. HTML follows a looser set of rules and does not require strict adherence to XML guidelines.

On the other hand, XHTML is a stricter and more rigorous markup language that conforms to XML standards. It combines the power of HTML and the strictness of XML. XHTML documents must follow specific guidelines and rules to be well-formed and valid. This means that tags must be properly nested, all elements must be closed, attribute values must be enclosed in quotes, and other XML-related rules must be followed. The stricter syntax of XHTML promotes cleaner code and ensures consistency and compatibility across different platforms.

One of the main benefits of using XHTML is that it is compatible with XML-based tools and technologies. This compatibility allows for more extensive integration with other systems and applications, such as content management systems and data interchange protocols. XHTML documents can be easily parsed and manipulated using XML parsers, making it easier to process and transform the content programmatically.

Another significant difference between HTML and XHTML is how they handle deprecated or obsolete elements and attributes. HTML allows the use of certain elements and attributes that are considered outdated or not recommended for use. In contrast, XHTML strictly discourages the use of deprecated elements and attributes and encourages the use of more modern alternatives. This helps ensure that web pages are built using the latest standards and best practices.

When it comes to browser compatibility, HTML has broader support across various web browsers, including older versions. This is because HTML has been around for a longer time and has evolved along with the growth of the web. XHTML, being more strict and adhering to XML standards, may encounter compatibility issues with older web browsers that do not support XML parsing or have limited support for XHTML.

In terms of extensibility, XHTML provides more opportunities for customization and extending the language through the use of XML namespaces. This allows developers to define and use custom elements and attributes within their XHTML documents. HTML, while it can also be extended using non-standard attributes or JavaScript, lacks the formal mechanism for defining custom elements in the same way as XHTML.

In summary, the main differences between HTML and XHTML lie in their syntax, adherence to XML standards, compatibility, and extensibility. HTML offers flexibility and broader browser support, making it more forgiving and suitable for older web environments. On the other hand, XHTML enforces stricter rules, follows XML standards, and offers compatibility with XML tools and technologies, providing a cleaner and more extensible markup language.

It's important to note that with the introduction of HTML5, which is a more modern and flexible version of HTML, the differences between HTML and XHTML have become less pronounced. HTML5 incorporates many features and advantages of XHTML while still maintaining backward compatibility with older HTML syntax. As a result, the decision to use HTML or XHTML depends on specific project requirements, compatibility needs, and personal preferences. Call web development company in India to get price.