Abstract: An image forming apparatus including hardware resources used for image forming processes and applications for performing image forming processes is provided, in which the image forming apparatus includes: an authentication part for referring to predetermined information and performing authentication of a user who uses an application by using a method according to the predetermined information.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling launch of an application is provided, in which the apparatus includes resources used for executing an application, and the apparatus includes: a part for obtaining resource status information indicating status of resources of the apparatus when the application is launched; and a part for sending a message on launch determination to the application by referring to the resource status information and resource use information on resources to be used by the application.

Abstract: An image forming apparatus is provided, in which the image forming apparatus includes: a user database in which user identification information for identifying an user of the image forming apparatus is registered; an operation panel for receiving a key operation input; a secure program used for determining whether a user service can be provided on the basis of the user identification information in the user database and another user identification information input by the user.