Middleware

Definition - What does Middleware mean?

Middleware is a software layer situated between applications and operating systems. Middleware is typically used in distributed systems where it simplifies software development by doing the following:

  • Hides the intricacies of distributed applications
  • Hides the heterogeneity of hardware, operating systems and protocols
  • Provides uniform and high-level interfaces used to make interoperable, reusable and portable applications
  • Provides a set of common services that minimizes duplication of efforts and enhances collaboration between applications

Techopedia explains Middleware

Middleware is similar to an operating system because it can support other application programs, provide controlled interaction, prevent interference between computations and facilitate interaction between computations on different computers via network communication services.

A typical operating system provides an application programming interface (API) for programs to utilize underlying hardware features. Middleware, however, provides an API for utilizing underlying operating system features.

Popular White Papers

Techopedia Newsletter Sign-Up

Get Techopedia delivered to your inbox!