Third party

Third party, alternatively referred to as third-party, is the term used to describe a situation in which a third party exists outside of a two-party agreement. This third party has an indirect effect on the outcome of the two-party agreement and, while not necessarily involved formally in the agreement, is affected by it. In the context of computers, programming, and cybersecurity, a third-party can refer to an outside parties involved in the development process, software support, or any activities related to the protection of computer systems, networks, and data.

In regards to software development, the term third-party can refer to the software developer and any associated professionals who are not affiliated with the company or organization who has commissioned the work. These developers can provide support, code, or other services to ensure a project’s success or to help the software adhere to the original specifications.

The term also has applications in the area of cybersecurity. Organizations often use third-party entities outside of their network to help scan for malicious software and protect the company from malicious actors. Third-party entities can provide services such as antivirus scanning, vulnerability assessment, and penetration testing to ensure a computer system, network, or data is protected and secure.

Overall, the term third party, when used in the context of computers, programming, and cybersecurity, refers to an entity that is existentially outside a two-party agreement, but has an indirect effect on the agreement’s outcome. This entity can help in the development and security of a project, but is neither involved directly in the agreement nor is it a governing entity.