What Is Middleware and How Does It Work?

Different applications in your device need to communicate with each other. Middleware is the software that helps with that communication, serving as a bridge between different tools and apps to allow for data exchange. In this article, learn what how middleware works, what its purpose is, and what components it's made up of.

What is middleware?

Middleware by definition is software that sits between applications and operating systems, acting as a bridge between them. It's like a glue that connects different applications to provide a way of communication and data transfer.

Essentially, middleware lets lets apps interact with each other. Without it, applications like software tools and databases couldn't exchange data.

Consider, for example, if you wanted to access data from a mobile app that's stored in a database. You would use middle software to make sure you have smooth communication between the app and the database. In the context of web development, therefore, middleware refers to parts that handle tasks like request processing, authentication, and caching.

Middleware offers a way to hide complicated system communication from developers. Then, they can focus on building the the cores of their different applications without worrying about the technical details.

A graph showing the process of middleware

IT experts use standardized APIs offered by middle software to interact with various systems. This makes it easier to switch between different middleware solutions.

How does middleware work?

Middle software operates as a hidden translation layer that connects different technologies so that you can link them together into a single system. This single system then gives services to its users.

Technically, it works by translating information between platforms that don't work together. Instead of applications communicating directly, middle software inserts itself, managing data exchange. It often relies on standardized APIs, which let developers use reliable methods for interacting with various systems.

History of middle software

Middleware has been around for a long time. The concept dates back to the 1980s. Initially, it was designed to provide a common platform for different applications to run on.

However, as technology progressed, the need for middle software became more apparent as businesses began to use multiple applications to streamline their operations. Middleware played a critical role in making sure that these applications could share data in real time.

Today, middle software has become an important part of modern software system. They allow easy collaboration between different applications. It also paved the way for cloud computing, which relies heavily on middle software to enable communication between different cloud services.

Components of middleware

Middleware architecture consists of several components that work together to enable communication between different applications. They include:

  • Application servers, which provide an environment for running applications and often include services like database access, security, and transaction management. The app server is responsible for routing messages between different applications.
  • Client interface, which communicates with other applications, tools, and databases. Because of this, developers usually use it as a set of APIs for use in code.
  • Message format; middle software uses a standard message format that enables different applications to exchange data. The format specifies the structure of the message.
  • Middleware protocols, which define the rules for communication between middleware clients and the server. They ensure that messages are delivered securely.
  • Database managers, which enable interaction between applications and provide a layer for data access and manipulation.
  • Transaction monitors, which manage and coordinate transactions across multiple systems in order to boost consistency.
  • Management consoles, which provide a graphical user interface (GUI) for managing the middle software. They allow administrators to configure the middle software, monitor its performance, and troubleshoot problems.
  • Security provider, which enforces authentication, authorization, and encryption policies. This helps to protect sensitive resources from unauthorized access.

Common types of middleware

There are several different types of middleware that exist. Each has a unique application in computing and communication.

  • Message-oriented middleware (MOM). It enables asynchronous communication between distributed applications by accelerating the exchange of messages. MOM manages the routing and queuing, as well as the delivery, of messages between components in a reliable and asynchronous manner.
  • Remote Procedure Call (RPC). It enables communication between different software processes running on separate systems.
  • Object-oriented middleware (OOM). Monitors interaction between components in a distributed system. The middle software provides tools for remote method invocation, object serialization, and also transparent object interaction across different platforms.
  • Web middleware. It helps with web requests and responses, like Apache HTTP Server and applications like Apache Tomcat.
  • Transaction processing middleware. It handles the coordination of exchanges in distributed systems, working to ensure the atomicity, consistency, isolation, and durability (ACID) properties of transactions across multiple databases.
  • Database middleware. It manages interactions between applications and offers a layer for data access, manipulation, and connectivity.
  • Object Request Brokers (ORBs). It eases communication between objects in distributed environments.
  • Enterprise Service Bus (ESB). It supports integration by providing a central hub for sharing data among various enterprise applications.

Categories of middle software

Some IT analysts like Gartner classified middleware into three categories based on its relationship with other software components.

Enterprise application integration (EAI) middleware

EAI allows programmers to develop applications without the need to create custom integrations for every new app. The middle software provides a standard layer of functionality that allows for Business-to-Business (B2B) integration.

In essence, EAI middleware streamlines the process of making diverse software systems work together cohesively. It boosts the overall interoperability of enterprise systems.

Platform middleware

It provides a strong base to build various applications on. It essentially lays the groundwork for a platform and creates a stable environment for them to work together. Platform middle software includes tools that support application development, such as development frameworks.

Web middleware

Web middleware specifically caters to web-based applications. It includes components that contribute to web application development, deployment, and management. These features may include web servers, caching systems, and content delivery networks (CDNs).

Middleware technologies

Once an organization has decided to use middle software in their systems, they must choose which middleware technology is best suited for their needs. There are several popular middleware technologies available, each with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

One such technology is Common Object Request Broker Architecture (CORBA). CORBA allows data exchange between two software applications regardless of the programming language used to develop the application. It uses a standardized message format called Interface Definition Language (IDL).

Another one is the Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP). SOAP is a messaging protocol used for sharing structured data between applications over the Internet. It uses Extensible Markup Language (XML) to format and send messages. The technology can be used with a variety of transport protocols, such as HTTP.

Representational State Transfer (REST) has gotten more popular in recent years. It's an architectural style for creating web services that use HTTP as the primary communication protocol. REST is known for being lightweight and flexible, making it a popular choice for applications based in the web.

Functions of middleware

Middleware software serves several functions, including:

  • Communication. It translates messages between different systems to link two or more applications together.
  • Simplifying the development process. It provides pre-built components which developers can then utilize to reduce the amount of time and effort required to create applications.
  • Enhancing authentication. It identifies secure mechanisms for user identification. For this reason, there's better integration of authentication services like single sign-on (SSO).
  • Promoting security. It plays a crucial role in promoting security because of features like encryption, data validation, and secure communication protocols.
  • Integrating and managing data. It assists in real-time data integration and management by enabling synchronization across databases.
  • Optimizing existing applications. It optimizes existing applications as they improve their performance.

Middleware implementation

Implementing middle software can be a complex process. However, it's crucial for modern software systems. Once you identify the specific needs of your software system, which includes factors like scalability, security, ease of use, and cost, then you can follow these basic steps to implement the software.

  1. Choose the technology that meets the requirements of your system.
  2. Design the architecture, including network topology, communication protocols, and message formats.
  3. Develop the middleware components, like interfaces, data models, and application programming interfaces (APIs).
  4. Integrate the components with the existing applications.
  5. Then, test the system to ensure it functions properly and make any necessary adjustments.
  6. Finally, deploy the system and monitor its performance over time.

How to choose a middleware platform

Choosing the right middleware platform depends on your specific goals. If you need it for handling data, go for database middle software. However, for application services, opt for application server middleware. The key is to match the software with what your performance needs.

Look for middle software that provides useful tools for developers. For instance, Red Hat offers tools for container-based processing. If a particular toolset captures your eye, it might be the right middle software. Just make sure it works well with your applications.

You can also compare different products based on reliability, complexity, and performance. Performance speeds can vary, so select one that fits your needs.

Consider community support as well, because a platform with an active community means that you can use customizable open-source tools to better improve your applications.

Several providers offer middle software solutions. Each offers unique benefits and services. Here are a few examples of middleware.

  • IBM - Stands tall with its WebSphere suite, an excellent source of application servers.
  • Microsoft - Provides apps like BizTalk Server and Azure Logic for smooth integration.
  • Oracle - Introduced its robust Fusion Middleware platform to cater to the needs of demanding enterprises.
  • Red Hat - Empowers developers with its JBoss EAP and AMQ Broker for fostering community-driven innovation.
  • Tibco - Offers Tibco Connected Intelligence, which offers real-time data streaming.
  • SAP - Delivers its NetWeaver platform, tailored specifically for the needs of its clientele.

Frequently asked questions

How does middle software enhance security measures?

It helps security measures by providing authentication, authorization, and encryption services for data transmission.

What are the challenges associated with middle software integration?

Middleware integration can be complicated when it connects diverse systems. Users should also factor in performance cost and the fact that users must depend on middle software providers.

How does cloud-native middleware differ from traditional middleware?

Cloud-native middle software is specifically designed to operate in cloud environments. It provides scalability, agility, and resiliance, while traditional middle software has limited cloud compatibility.

Why is it called middleware?

Middleware is called such because it's short for "middle software." It sits in the middle between apps and systems, connecting the two.