< business , networking > (ASP) A service (usually a business) that provides remote access to an application program across a network protocol , typically HTTP . A common example is a web site that other web sites use for accepting payment by credit card as part of their online ordering systems.
As this term is complex-sounding but vague, it is widely used by marketroids who want to avoid being specific and clear at all costs.
(2001-03-26)