(1) In the OSI reference model, a layer that provides services to the next higher layer.
(2) In System Manager, the system used to provide problem-handling support to another system or systems connected to it by communications lines. The service provider can also be the alert focal point in a network. See also service requester.
(3) Any company that provides services for a fee to its customers, such as telecommunication companies, application service providers, enterprise IT, and Internet service providers.
(4) A company or program that provides a business function as a service. The service provider receives messages from a service requester and runs the requested service. The service provider might also send messages in reply to the request.