<architecture, library, microsoft> (WOSA) One of the mainstays
of Microsoft Windows: the ethos of abstraction of core
services.
For each extension, Windows Open Services Architecture
defines an API and an SPI, as well as a universal
interface (usually placed in a single DLL) that both comply
to.
These then transparently let the operating system speak to
device drivers, database managers, and other low level
entities.
These extensions include, among others, ODBC (called the
"crowning jewel of WOSA"), TAPI, WOSA/XFS, SAPI and
MAPI, and their supporting services, as well as the
abstraction of access to printers, modems, and networking
services, which run identically over TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, and
NetBEUI.
(2000-08-16)
Nearby terms:
Windows NT 4 « Windows NT 5 « Windows NT Network Model « Windows Open Service Architecture » Windows sockets » Windows XP » window system
