Definition of provider

In a Web Parts connection, a server control that sends data to a consumer control. A provider can be a WebPart control or any type of server control, but must be designed to function as a provider. A provider must have a special callback method marked with a ConnectionProviderAttribute attribute in the source code. This method provides data to consumer controls in the form of an interface instance.

An entity which provides some services.

A software component that allows a replica to synchronize its data with other replicas.

A company that provides services or content for its customers.