What are web standards?

Web standards refer to the guidelines and specifications established to ensure consistency, accessibility, and quality across web development. These standards are created by organizations such as the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and cover various aspects of web technology, including coding practices, markup languages (like HTML and XHTML), and stylesheet languages (like CSS).

By adhering to web standards, developers can create websites that work consistently across different browsers and devices, providing a better user experience. This consistency is crucial because the web is largely accessible through various platforms—such as desktops, tablets, and smartphones—and different browsers may interpret code in varied ways. Standards help mitigate these discrepancies, ensuring that users see the same website functionality regardless of how they access it.

Additionally, web standards promote accessibility for users with disabilities, allowing developers to create more inclusive web environments. Overall, these guidelines contribute to the overall quality, maintainability, and longevity of web projects.

The other choices represent different aspects of web development or technology, but they don't encapsulate the comprehensive nature of what web standards are. Frameworks for mobile applications, tools for user interface design, and protocols for data transactions address specific needs rather than serving as overarching guidelines for web development.