back-end
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)