<programming> Any software performing either the final stage
in a process, or a task not apparent to the user. A common
usage is in a compiler. A compiler's back-end generates
machine language and performs optimisations specific to the
machine's architecture.
The term can also be used in the context of network
applications. E.g. "The back-end of the system handles
socket protocols".
Contrast front end.
(1996-04-09)
Nearby terms:
backbone cabal « backbone site « back door « back-end » Back End Generator » Back End Generator Language » backgammon
