YAML, which stands for "YAML Ain't Markup Language," is a human-readable data serialization format commonly used for configuration files and data exchange. It aims to be simple to read and write, making it a popular choice for settings and parameters in various applications. YAML files use indentation to define the structure, rather than relying on opening and closing tags like XML or delimiters like JSON.
YAML falls under the category of Data Serialization Languages. It provides a way to represent structured data that is easy for both humans and machines to read and write. This makes it particularly useful in scenarios where configuration settings need to be stored in a human-readable format. YAML is versatile and can be utilized in a wide range of applications, from software development to system administration.
The YAML format was first proposed by Clark Evans and Ingy döt Net in 2001 as a part of the initiative to create a more human-friendly data serialization language. The motivation behind YAML was to address the shortcomings of formats like XML and make data representation more intuitive and efficient. Over the years, YAML has gained popularity and is now supported by a wide range of programming languages and tools.
In terms of market share, YAML has a significant presence in the data serialization landscape, especially in the realm of configuration files for software applications. As modern applications become more complex, the need for clear and manageable configuration files grows, which bodes well for YAML's future. With the increasing adoption of technologies that rely on easily readable configuration formats, YAML is expected to continue growing in market share.
