R/3 Basis Software - The Architecture of SAP R/3

The R/3 basis software is the set of programs and tools which interfaces with the computer operating system, the underlying database, the communication protocols, and the presentation interfaces. This software enables the R/3 applications (FI, CO, SD, etc.) to have the same functionality and work exactly the same way no matter what operating system or database the system is installed on. The R/3 basis software is an independent layer that guarantees the integration of all application modules. When referring to the basis software in this sense, it is generally known as the R/3 common kernel or R/3 middleware. Kernel and middleware have become generic computing terms which are widely used: kernel usually refers to the core or nucleus of a system; middleware means a set of programs which allows an independent interface between an upper layer and a lower layer (it stands in the middle).