DTD (Document Type Definition) and XSD (XML Schema Definition) are both related to a markup language known as XML (Extensible Markup Language).
Since most of the client machines require getting data from the server, XML is an effective method of fetching it. Although both DTD and XSD are related to the same markup language, XML, they differ from each other in a lot of aspects.
Key Takeaways
- Document Type Definition (DTD) and XML Schema Definition (XSD) define the structure and rules for XML documents.
- DTD is an older, simpler standard with limited data types and no support for XML namespaces. At the same time, XSD is a more robust standard with support for complex data types, XML namespaces, and extensibility.
- XSD is preferred for its versatility and stronger validation capabilities, whereas DTD may be used in simpler, legacy applications.
DTD vs XSD
A document type definition (DTD) is a set of markup declarations that define the structure, legal elements, and attributes of an XML document type for SGML. XSD describes the rules and constraints for elements in an XML document. It is extensible and supports data types and default values.
DTD stands for Document Type Definition. It is a type of document that is used to define the structure of an XML (Extensible Markup Language) document.
XSD stands for XML Schema Definition. It is a way that is used to describe the structure and content of an XML document. XSD was first published in 2001 and was again brought back in 2004.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | DTD | XSD |
|---|---|---|
| Full-form | DTD stands for Document Type Definition | XSD stands for XML Schema Definition. |
| Written in | DTD is derived from SGML (Standard Generalized Markup Language) syntax. | XSD is written in XML |
| Features | DTD can be used to define the structure of an XML document. | XSD can be used to describe the structure and contents of an XML document. |
| Control | DTD has less control over XML. | XSD provides better control over XML. |
| Capability | DTD does not support Namespace and datatypes. | XSD supports Namespace and datatypes. |
| Learning | DTD is not easy to learn. | XSD is easy to learn because here we do not need to learn a new language. |
| Extensible | DTD is not extensible. | XSD is extensible. |
What is DTD?
DTD stands for Document Type Definition and is a type of document that is used to define the structure of an XML (Extensible Markup Language) file.
DTD can further be divided into two parts, namely, external DTD and internal DTD. The DTD elements declared within the XML file are known as internal DTD, whereas the DTD elements declared in some other files are known as external DTD.
DTD is derived from SGML (Standard Generalized Markup Language) syntax. It does not support Namespace and Datatypes and has less control over XML. DTD is also not extensible.
However, it does, at times, act as the extended version of the XML. DTD is not simple to learn. DTD is precisely declarations that define a document type for SGML.
What is XSD?
XSD stands for XML Schema Definition and is a way that is used to describe and content of an XML (Extensible Markup Language) document.
XSD files are of two types, namely, simple Type and complex Type. The Type, which allows having text-based elements and contains fewer attributes child elements, and cannot be left empty, is known as the simple Type XSD.
XML is used for writing XSD. It supports Namespace and Datatypes for elements and attributes. XSD is extensible and gives us more control over the XML document.
XSD is precisely used to describe the elements in an XML document. Learning XSD is comparatively easier than that of DTD because here, we do not need to learn a new language.
Main Differences Between DTD and XSD.
- DTD has less control over XML, whereas XSD provides more control over XML.
- DTD is comparatively harder to learn than XSD, whereas XSD is simple to learn, as here we do not need to learn a new language.
- https://dl.acm.org/doi/abs/10.1145/1017074.1017095
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S095070510600150X
Last Updated : 20 July, 2023
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Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.
It’s great to see the main differences clearly outlined. The simplicity of XSD is definitely a key factor
Understanding that XSD provides better control over XML is a crucial point. Appreciate the comprehensive overview.
Absolutely. Having a stronger set of tools and features is essential for more complex applications.
Definitely, it’s about knowing the right tool for the job based on the specific needs of the project.
I appreciate the explanations. It’s crucial to understand the specific features and capabilities DTD and XSD offer
Absolutely, It’s essential to consider these aspects based on the specific needs of your project
Indeed, it’s all about making informed decisions when working with XML.
The comparison table really helps to summarize the key differences. It’s a great resource for anyone navigating DTD and XSD
Absolutely, it’s a lot clearer when you see the side-by-side comparison.
This article effectively explains the differences between DTD and XSD. Wouldn’t have had the full picture without it
Indeed, it’s valuable information for anyone working with XML. Understanding the level of control and versatility each one provides is crucial
XSD making it easier to understand and manage XML documents is crucial. Thanks for sharing these insights.
Agreed. Having a more intuitive way to validate XML data is essential. DTD’s limitations can be challenging in modern applications
Both DTD and XSD are important. They lay down the rules and structure of the data in the document. The difference in the level of control XSD and DTD offer should be considered when choosing
Yes, DTD is simpler but it has its limitations as well. Understanding the specific needs of your application is key
Absolutely. XSD provides stronger validation capabilities but it’s also more complex to understand and use
Very informative. XSD seems like the way to go when you need a more versatile standard, while DTD may suffice for simpler formats.
I can see how the extensibility of XSD is a big advantage. It allows for more flexibility and adaptability.
Being able to describe the structure and contents of XML documents in a more precise manner can be a game changer
Absolutely, especially when working with complex data types and different namespaces.
The ability to extend XSD is a major advantage. It’s an important factor to consider for future-proofing technology