Hosted Software

Definition - What does Hosted Software mean?

Hosted software refers to software that is installed, hosted and accessed entirely from a remote server or location.

Hosted software is hosted and managed by the software manufacturer or a third-party vendor. Users can access it globally through the Internet.

Hosted software is also known as software as a service (SaaS), a cloud computing service model.

Techopedia explains Hosted Software

Hosted software differs from typical software in its installation and accessibility. Unlike most software, which is housed on the user's machine, hosted software-related data processing and computing is performed on the remote host server. End users can access this data through a compatible Web browser.

Generally, hosted software is provided as a service to end users, who are billed monthly on pay-per-use or per-license fee billing method. Because all programs are installed at a provider’s location, they are managed, upgraded and patched by the provider, ensuring that users always have access to updated, bug-free versions of the software they use.

Popular White Papers

Techopedia Newsletter Sign-Up

Get Techopedia delivered to your inbox!