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Difference between Hardware and Middleware
Hardware and Middleware are two important terms related to computers. Hardware represents physical components of a computer system, while middleware referrers to a software that acts as communication bridge between different application software.
In this article, we will discuss the important differences between hardware and middleware. But before going to discuss the differences, let us first get an overview of hardware and middleware individually.
What is Hardware?
The physical components of a computer system are called hardware. Therefore, CPU, CPU cabinet, motherboard, keyboard, power supply, mouse, monitor, etc. are examples of hardware.
Hardware can be of two types, namely internal hardware and external hardware. Internal hardware are the hardware components of a device which are placed inside the case or body of the device. For example, motherboard, CPU, RAM, ROM, etc. are examples of internal hardware. On the other hand, external hardware are the hardware components of the computer which are placed outside the computer case and are usually connected through cables, like monitor, keyboard, mouse, etc. Basically, hardware forms the basic Skeleton of a computer or any other electronic device.
What is Middleware?
A software that provides a communication bridge between different software applications is called a middleware. Middleware is responsible for providing integration and connectivity among different software applications so that they can exchange data and services with each other.
Middleware can provide advanced services like data transformation, security, etc. These software help to exchange and manage data in distributed systems. Middleware is mainly used in enterprise-level systems like in banking systems, content management systems, application servers, telecommunication systems, etc.
After discussing the basics of hardware and middleware, let us now discuss the important differences between hardware and middleware.
Difference between Hardware and Middleware
The important differences between hardware and middleware are listed in the following table:
Parameter |
Hardware |
Middleware |
|---|---|---|
Definition |
Any physical components of a computer system are called hardware. |
A computer software that provides a communication bridge among different software application is called a middleware. |
Main function |
Hardware performs functions in response to instructions. |
Middleware provides integration and connectivity among software applications to exchange data and services. |
Type |
Hardware is physical parts of a system. |
Middleware is software components of a computer system. |
Installation |
Hardware requires physical installation in the computer system. |
There is no need of physical installation in the case of middleware. |
Portability |
Hardware is considered less portable, as it is physically fixed to the system. |
Middleware is considered to be portable, as it can be shared and installed on any compatible system. |
Scalability |
The scalability of hardware is limited to its construction and function. |
Middleware can be scaled by adding more features through programming. |
Development process |
Hardware is manufactured in a factory. |
Middleware is developed through programming. |
Tangible |
Hardware can be touched. |
Middleware cannot be touched. |
Availability |
Hardware is available in computer hardware stores. |
Middleware can be downloaded and installed through internet. |
Application |
Hardware is used to build the physical structure of a computer system. |
Middleware is used in content management systems, web servers, banking systems, etc. |
Examples |
Examples of hardware include CPU monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, motherboard, etc. |
Examples of middleware are application servers, APIs, transaction process monitors, etc. |
Conclusion
The most significant difference between hardware and middleware is that hardware is physical parts of a system, while middleware is software parts of a system.
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