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WSDAPI
**Web Services for Devices API (WSDAPI)** enables automatic discovery and communication between connected devices in a network, streamlining device management and integration on **Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Windows Server 2008** systems. This protocol simplifies the interaction between PCs and network-enabled devices such as printers, scanners, and cameras by utilizing **web service standards** like SOAP to provide plug-and-play functionality..
The Web Services for Devices API (WSDAPI) is a Microsoft implementation conforming to the Devices Profile for Web Services (DPWS) specification. It facilitates seamless communication between client systems and network-connected devices over standard protocols, enabling device discovery, description, control, and eventing across local networks. The protocol operates primarily over TCP and UDP, leveraging SOAP-based messaging and XML for structured data exchanges.
WSDAPI allows Windows-based hosts to discover compatible devices dynamically, often used in a plug-and-play fashion. Upon network connection, a client sends out probe messages to locate services provided by devices. Once discovered, metadata and device capabilities are retrieved using WS-MetadataExchange, and clients can interact with the device functions via standardized SOAP commands. This enhances interoperability without proprietary drivers or manual configuration.
The API is integrated deeply into Windows operating systems starting from Vista, primarily supporting devices like network printers, scanners, and multifunction peripherals. As it employs web service standards, it avoids reliance on legacy protocols such as SNMP or LPR, paving the way for richer capabilities and better management options, as well as easier integration into modern service-oriented network architectures.