Parse is a cloud-based platform that provides backend services for mobile and web applications. It allows developers to store data, manage user authentication, and send push notifications without needing to build their own server infrastructure. This simplifies the development process and helps developers focus on creating their applications. Originally developed by Parse, Inc., the platform was acquired by Facebook in 2013 and later open-sourced in 2016. It supports various programming languages and frameworks, making it versatile for different types of projects. Developers can use Parse Server to deploy their applications on any cloud service, enhancing flexibility and scalability.