What is an ASP System?
An ASP system, or application service provider system, is software that provides computer-based services to various customers by way of a network. Basically, the ASP vendor houses the software and allows users to access the software. This approach allows for users to use a software, which can be rather expensive, without having to actually buy it. Users generally use the software through a standard protocol (like HTTP) or by separate software provided by the ASP. ASP systems have become very popular, especially for smaller businesses for whom expensive specialized software would be cost prohibitive. ASP system customers vary greatly and include individuals, private businesses, and public organizations. Medical billing services, payment processing services like PayPal, and timesheet services like SlimTimer are all examples of ASP systems. There are various categories of ASP systems depending on how many solutions are provided by the ASP. Some ASPs only focus on one application such as c