Mainframe versus Midrange

Mainframe A very large and expensive computer capable of supporting hundreds, or even thousands, of users simultaneously. Although the term mainframe first described the physical characteristics of early systems, today it can best be used to describe a style of operation, applications, and operating system facilities.

Midrange In general, midrange refers to computers that are more powerful and capable than personal computers but less powerful and capable than mainframe computers. Midrange computers have been sold to small to medium-sized businesses as their main computer and to larger enterprises for branch or department-level operations.