Object Request Broker
An Object Request Broker (ORB) is a middleware component that enables communication between distributed objects in a network, allowing them to invoke methods on remote objects as if they were local. It handles the underlying network protocols, data marshalling, and location transparency, abstracting the complexities of distributed computing. ORBs are a core part of the Common Object Request Broker Architecture (CORBA) standard, which facilitates interoperability between different programming languages and systems.
Developers should learn about ORBs when building distributed systems that require seamless interaction between heterogeneous components, such as in enterprise applications, financial services, or telecommunications. It is particularly useful for scenarios where objects written in different languages (e.g., Java, C++, Python) need to communicate across networks, as it provides a standardized way to achieve language and platform independence. Understanding ORBs is essential for working with legacy CORBA-based systems or when designing architectures that prioritize interoperability over newer, more lightweight alternatives.