Applications using the Force.com must be configured as what in Salesforce?

In the context of applications using the Force.com platform, they must be configured as Connected Apps in Salesforce. A Connected App is specifically designed to enable external applications to integrate with Salesforce using standard protocols such as OAuth. This configuration allows for secure access and interaction with Salesforce data by external applications.

Connected Apps facilitate the management of authentication and authorization processes, ensuring that any external application interacting with Salesforce adheres to security standards. They are essential for APIs, mobile applications, or any web-based integrations that need to connect with Salesforce while maintaining control over what data and features they can access.

Other types mentioned, like Standard Apps and Custom Apps, relate to the categorization of applications within Salesforce but do not encompass the necessary functionality for integrating external applications securely. A Standard App is generally provided by Salesforce, while a Custom App refers to applications that are developed specifically to meet unique business needs but do not inherently include integration capabilities like a Connected App does. Basic App is not a recognized type within Salesforce configuration.