Web Service vs WCF Service

Question

What is the difference between them?

When would I opt for one over the other?

Answer 1

Web Service is based on SOAP and return data in XML form. It support only HTTP protocol. It is not open source but can be consumed by any client that understands xml. It can be hosted only on IIS.

WCF is also based on SOAP and return data in XML form. It is the evolution of the web service(ASMX) and support various protocols like TCP, HTTP, HTTPS, Named Pipes, MSMQ. The main issue with WCF is, its tedious and extensive configuration. It is not open source but can be consumed by any client that understands xml. It can be hosted with in the applicaion or on IIS or using window service.