Middleware

Middleware is a widely used term for a layer or a set of technology software to provide interoperability between different applications, systems, and components.

There are several main types of middleware software:

• a distributed object system (DOS), or distributed object technology (DOT)
• database access middleware
• transaction monitors
• remote procedure call (RPC)
• message-oriented middleware (MOM)

Among modern private interpretations, the most commonly used meanings of the term middleware are as follows:

• A layer for interaction between client software and databases;
• For the interaction of system and application software;
• A layer between operating systems and application software,
• A tool for the interaction of applications with a network, ensuring unification between programs;
• Software for the synergy of various components of programs and databases.

In the most general case, the term middleware is often used to refer to the infrastructure: web servers, application servers, transaction monitors, service software, and content management systems.

Middleware is the core of modern IT solutions based on XML, SOAP, web services and service-oriented architecture.

Categories

The classification includes middleware, which is adjusted for specific apps.

Data Access middleware

Data Access middleware can interact with diverse data sources. In this category middleware are process transactions, database gateways and distributed transaction/procedure systems.

Desktop middleware

Desktop middleware can make variations in the presentation of information requested by the user for tracking and assistance apps, control any delivery service and provide backup and other background operations. Others may be maintenance and graphics, ordering, service directories, management of database information, process management, scheduling of work, service events notification, software installation management, encryption services and access control.

Web-based middleware

This type of middleware assists the user with web browsing, the use of interfaces that allow him to find pages of interest and detect changes of the user interest based on his search history. It provides an identification service for a large number of apps and communication between processes independent of the operating system, network protocol and hardware platform.

Real-time middleware

Real-time middleware is characterized by the fact that the information may be correct in one moment and may not be in another. Real-time middleware supports time-sensitive requests and planning policies. This is done with services that improve the efficiency of user applications.
The information that passes through a middleware in real time has increased dramatically with the introduction of the internet, wireless networks, and new applications based on dissemination.