Framework

Updated: 09/12/2023 by Computer Hope

Framework may refer to any of the following:

Three interlinked cubes.

1. With computer software, a framework is a foundation with a specified level of complexity (based on user level) that a programmer may extend using their code. It might include a set of software libraries, compilers, interpreters, or an API. It generally provides an environment that facilitates a specific type of programming for a software development project.

Most software frameworks are characterized by a design philosophy called IoC (Inversion of Control). Normally, computer programs define a program's flow of control and make calls to libraries for individual functions. When using a framework, however, the relationship is inverted: the framework manages the overall control flow and makes calls to the user's code when needed. A framework allows the developer to focus on details specific to the project and bypass the more general requirements.

Examples of software frameworks include AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML), APIs (application programming interfaces), multimedia authoring and scripting tools, and web application middleware.

2. Framework is the name of a computer manufacturer that specializes in modular laptops.

API, Flow of control, Programming terms, Software development, Web application