Re: How do YOU use Nmap XML?

[magnus () linuxtag org (Nils Magnus)]

Re,

On Tue, Nov 16, 2004 at 09:40:28AM -0600, Yvan G.J. Boily wrote:

> My understanding of it is such that XML elements are used to
> encapsulate data sets, while attributes define properties of that  
> dataset.

Ok, that is an approach.

> Since the hosts element details the number of hosts that are up, down,
> and the total, this indicates a set of properties of the dataset.  There
> is no real way that this data could be extended either; a host is either
> up or it is down.  That makes it a discrete value.

Well, technically speaking not really: It can be proven up and sometimes
proven down (say as assumed by a received ICMP host unreachable packet),
but it can also be suspectible of being up or down, even if this is not
implemented at the moment with all that fine grain. Looking at ports
would be a better example.

But I see your point. However, why do we write

  <h1>nmap - the great scanner</h1>

instead of

  <h1 headline="nmap - the great scanner" />

I don't want to start a general discussion about the pros and cons of
XML, though.

> Using a full element
> would increase the time (trivially) to parse the file, however, the
> larger impact is that it is not as readable (to a human).

I like this explanation.

> XML is meant to be a format that is interchangeable, but its biggest
> advantage over other data formats is that it can be read (ideally) by
> people as well as by machines.

I can't agree that this design-goal is attained :(

> This is a crucial part of
> interoperability as programmers (mostly human) have to be able to read
> XML input and output to be able to verify the implementations during the
> development cycle.

Ok, I see that point as well, but let's agree on "XML can be used to
be double checked during processing but is not useful for humans to read
(without additional means)". :)

Regards,

Nils Magnus
Program-Chair LinuxTag 2004 Free Conference Program

LinuxTag 2004: Where .com meets .org - magnus () linuxtag org

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