Recently I had to describe to a friend what a non-core module is. But I stumbled when I got to the correct term to refer to such modules. I have heard them refered to as "non-core" or "CPAN" or "3rd Party". Which is the best term and why?

Calling non-core modules "CPAN modules" doesn't seem to make much sense, since core modules are also on CPAN. And what is exactly meant by "3rd Party"?

For now, I am just saying "non-core", but that's like saying "non-American" when refering to someone who is not American. It doesn't really tell you much about their origin.

In reply to If it is not a core module, then what is it? by Anonymous Monk

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