If ever someone mentions the term ‘app,’ what probably comes to your mind is the small program installed on your PC, telephone, Voip Phone or other portable device. You may say a web application is a similar concept, but you never need to install it.
This is because web applications – or ‘web apps’ – operate within your web browser and display on conventional web page layouts. It appears to any end-user with an internet connection and uses an updated web browser depending on the PC or gadget used, including Safari, Firefox, Edge, and Google Chrome.
As a business person, you might wonder if you want to design a web app that can run on any computer or mobile device using any operating system. Below is a detailed explanation of how typical web applications operate and the advantages they derive.
What is a Web Application?
A web application, more commonly known as a web app, is a program you can run on a web application server and access through your browser. Unlike a mobile app, developed to work on a specific operating system, a web app can be installed on any device because it is not prescribed to use the operating system but browsers.
While building an application, software companies generally build a native app and a web app that can complement each other. For example, you can install the Google Docs application on your mobile phone or locate the Google Docs website on your computing device to exploit the same services. This way, companies can provide clients with native applications for people who need offline performance and web applications for the ones who want to use it on any device.
Difference Between Web Applications and Websites:
The main design difference between a web app and a website is that both are online applications accessed through the web and may be confused. However, the subjects of the two forms of electronics are somewhat dissimilar. Websites are mainly used for content delivery, while web applications deliver Interactions and functionalities.
A web application allows users to interact with the content and execute many actions. It may contain features like data handling, user identification, or a live feed. Some examples are Internet Banking systems, Facebook and Twitter, and online food ordering.
On the other hand, a website is a fixed of related, individual documents or web pages which present content and information to users. Most websites are flat, and new content is added sparingly, whereas the content predominantly includes documents that are best for viewing and reading. Those are a blog, news site, informational page, and fields such as a restaurant’s menu or working hours.
How Do Web Applications Work?
Unlike ordinary applications, Web applications do not have to be downloaded. They are network-based and function mainly through the client-server system. It is common to create a web application with which users of any web browser, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Safari, can interact.
To operate, a web app needs a web server, an application server, and a database. Web servers handle client requests, while application servers do the requested work. Any pre- and post-conditions are stored in a database.
Below are the usual steps involved in how a web application functions:
- The user enters the address of a web application in the browser or any other application on the used mobile device and sends a request to the web server through the internet. This implies that the request may go through other layers of data security like firewall, load balancer, etc.
- When querying the database, the web server must relay the request to the web application server. The web application server then executes the task and creates results.
- The web application server then passes the results to the web server.
- The web server then returns the information to the user on their device by showing it on the monitor.
In most cases, web applications have a relatively short delivery time, and the development team is often limited. Most web apps are coded in JavaScript, HTML5 or CSS by developers. These languages commonly used on the client side for creating the front-end of an application are the kind of programming commonly associated with it. Server-side programming generates the scripts that the web app will run. Languages such as Python, Java, and Ruby are used for server-side scripting or programming in web development.
Examples of Web Applications
Many types of web applications are made to address specific requirements. Here are some examples from various categories:
i. Webmail
Individual and business users utilize emails and related tools like webmail apps, video conferencing, and instant messaging. Web-based email applications can be illustrated by Gmail by Google.
ii. E-Commerce
An example of an e-commerce web application is the Amazon.com venture, allowing users to search, browse, or even purchase products online. Etsy is another example of a virtual marketplace through which it is possible to buy and sell vintage and handmade products.
iii. Online Banking
Customers employ online banking web applications to manage their accounts and other financial products, including personal and business. Some examples are Yahoo Messenger, facebook, or any blog or forum. Still, PayPal is a good example because it is a web app that provides payment for transactions and money transfers. Another example is Venmo, an application that sends and pays bills, splits, and makes payments.
iv. Workplace Collaboration
Business collaboration software allows users within a workplace to view calendars, documents, business instant messaging services and other business tools for use. Examples include Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Slack, and Google Drive.
V. Social Media
Social Media Web applications include Meta [Facebook], TikTok, and X [Twitter].
Vi. Content Management Systems
Web applications include content management systems (CMS) as examples. Popular CMS options include WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla.
Vii. Project Management Tools
Two primary examples of project management tools are Trello and Asana, which enable a team to track progress and coordinate project tasks.
Benefits of Performing Web Applications?
There are several advantages to web applications. Some common benefits include the following:
i. Multiple platform Compatibility
Multiple users can interact with a single copy of the Web 2.0 application simultaneously, running on several browsers installed on devices such as desktops, mobile phones, and laptops.
ii. Low Maintenance
Web app users, for instance, do not have to install it and thus do not require it to be maintained. Web apps are updated with the latest commonly used technologies and are less vulnerable to hacking than installed apps.
iii. Scalability
Web applications can process unlimited numbers of users or information. This allows businesses to grow through vertical integration without requiring a profound overhaul of physical structures.
iv. Enhanced Security
Most web applications contain elements of high-level security including, data and user authentication encryptions.
V. Improved Collaboration
Several web applications can be used for real-time collaboration. This allows several people to simultaneously work on one inheriting project, which is useful for distributed teams.
V. Cost-Effective Development
Web applications can be cheaper than desktop application development as they may need comprehensive funding, and the application itself can be more complex to update. For instance, one version can function well on every current web browser and gadget which saves the need for creating different versions for various browser platforms.
Vi. 24/7 Accessibility
To use and communicate with your web app, users only need a PC, laptop, or smartphone connected to the internet. A web-based application allows you to bypass geographic limitations and expand your business internationally. In addition, the given approach allows you to use the potential of SEO optimization and the multi-fold potential of digital marketing.
Disadvantages of Web Applications?
Although web applications provide numerous advantages, they also pose specific challenges, including the following:
i. Reliance on Connectivity to the Internet
Web applications rely on the availability of the Internet to facilitate the delivery of straightforward and fast services. For instance, a slow or nonexistent Internet connection can interfere with or prevent the user from using the application.
ii. Performance limitations
Web apps also have a weakness in speed because, despite being deployed and run through web browsers, they heavily depend on the internet connection speed. This can impact the interface’s quality and may harm those that require a high utilization of computer resources.
iii. Security issues
While web applications can adopt security measures, they remain susceptible to various online risks, including hacking and acts of leakage. Internet users should be careful since some sensitive information they send online may not be protected against intruders.
iv. User Experience
Many web applications have been developed to be more friendly and easy to use, but they lack the responsiveness of native apps.
V. Limited Functionality
Website applications are not always constructed with the same efficiency as standalone applications regarding the device’s resources and tools, such as the GPS, built-in camera, or offline mode. This may make them impractical under some circumstances.
Final Thoughts-Web Based Applications
Web-based applications offer numerous benefits, making them an attractive choice for businesses looking to capitalize on the Internet’s flexibility and reach. Their capabilities will increase as technology evolves, making them even more essential in the digital landscape. Furthermore, integrating advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning into web-based applications will likely redefine how these tools support business processes and decision-making. This will lead to more innovative, responsive applications anticipating user needs and streamlining complex processes.
FAQ's -Web-Based Applications
Q1. What are web-based applications?
Web-based applications are software that operate on a web server and are accessed via a web browser over the internet.
Q2. What are the key benefits of using web-based applications?
Accessibility, cost-effectiveness, scalability, and ease of maintenance are some of the key benefits.
Q3. Can web-based applications work offline?
Yes, some web-based applications can be designed to work offline by caching data and functionalities in the browser.
Q4. How do I secure a web-based application?
Implementing strong encryption, regularly updating software, and following best security practices can help secure a web-based application.
Q5. What are the biggest challenges when developing web-based applications?
Significant challenges include ensuring compatibility across different browsers and devices, managing high user traffic, and securing user data.
