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A Web application, also known as web app, is a software application that runs on a web server and is accessible via a web browser on the user’s end device. In contrast to traditional desktop applications, which have to be installed locally on the user’s computer, web applications are hosted centrally on a server and made available via the Internet.
Web applications use web technologies such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript on the client side, while various programming languages and frameworks such as Java, .NET, Python, Ruby, PHP and others can be used on the server side. Data is often exchanged via APIs, which enable communication between the front end and the back end of the application.
How does a web application work?
Web applications work through a combination of client-server architecture, where the client (the user’s browser) and the server (where the application is hosted) work together to exchange data and perform functions.
Request from the user
The process begins when a user performs an action in their web browser, such as clicking on a link, submitting a form or loading the web application itself. The browser sends a request to the server where the web application is hosted. This request may contain information such as user data, authentication tokens and other data provided by the user.
Processing on the server
The server receives the request and processes it accordingly. This may involve interacting with a database to store or retrieve data, executing business logic or interacting with other network services. The server-side logic is written in a server language such as PHP, Ruby, Python, Java or .NET. The server generates a response that is sent back to the client. This response can be pure data in JSON format, a fully rendered HTML page or something else, depending on the architecture of the application.
Response and display on the client
The web browser receives the response from the server and processes it accordingly. If the response contains HTML and CSS, the browser renders it into a graphical representation that the user can see. If the data is in JSON format, JavaScript can be used on the client side to process this data dynamically and display it accordingly in the browser. Modern web applications often use frameworks and libraries such as React, Angular or Vue.js to manage the client-side logic and make the user experience smooth and interactive.
Interaction and dynamic behavior
While using the web application, the user can continue to interact with the user interface, which may result in further requests to the server. Many web applications are designed to respond dynamically to user input without having to reload the page, a concept known as AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML). This creates a seamless and responsive experience where only parts of the page need to be updated, rather than the whole page.
State management
Since HTTP, the protocol used for communication on the web, is stateless, web applications need to implement mechanisms to manage state across multiple requests. This can be realized through techniques such as cookies, session storage or tokens, which allow the application to store and recognize information about the user over time.
What is the difference between a web application and native app?
Web apps are applications that run in a web browser and do not require installation on the user’s device. They are platform-independent and can be used on any device with a compatible web browser. Web apps are developed using web technologies such as HTML, CSS and JavaScript, which facilitates centralized maintenance and updates. As they are hosted on servers, changes can be implemented quickly and rolled out to all users simultaneously without the user having to perform manual updates.
Another advantage of web apps is their cost efficiency, as the same basis can be used for different platforms. However, web apps are often limited in their performance and access options to the device’s hardware, as they work within the limitations of the browser.
In contrast, native apps are developed specifically for a particular operating system such as iOS or Android and must be downloaded from app stores and installed on the device. Native apps can access the device’s hardware directly, such as the camera, GPS and accelerometer, which can lead to better performance and enhanced functionality.
These apps are created in the programming languages and development tools specific to each platform, allowing developers to provide an optimized user experience. However, maintenance and rolling out updates can be more time-consuming, as each platform version must be updated separately, and users must install the updates manually.
What is the difference between a web application and a website?
Web apps are interactive, dynamic and functional applications that run in web browsers. They are designed to actively involve users through extensive interaction options. With web apps, users can enter, edit and manipulate information in a variety of ways, similar to the functions of desktop software. Typical examples of web apps are online stores where users can search for products, add them to the shopping cart and make purchases, or cloud-based text editing programs.
In contrast, websites are primarily used to provide information and are generally less complex and interactive than web apps. Websites are often designed to present static or semi-dynamic content such as text, images and videos. Interaction is often limited to navigating between pages and filling out simple forms. The structure of websites is usually simpler and geared towards the efficient provision of content.
What are the advantages of web applications?
A Web application offers many advantages that make them attractive to companies and individuals alike.
- Cross-platform compatibility: Web apps run in web browsers that are available on a wide range of devices and operating systems. Users can therefore use the same application on a PC, tablet or smartphone without having to install specific versions for each device.
- No installation required: As web apps run in the browser, users do not need to download or install any software. This saves storage space on the user device and simplifies access.
- Centralized updates: Updates and new features can be implemented centrally on the server without the user having to actively update anything. This ensures that all users are always using the latest version of the application.
- Cost efficiency: Web app development and maintenance can be more cost-effective as the same application base is used for different platforms and devices, rather than having to develop separate apps for iOS, Android, Windows, etc.
- Easier maintenance and troubleshooting: Because server-side logic is centrally managed, maintenance and troubleshooting is often easier and faster, improving application uptime and reliability.
- Scalability: Web applications are easier to scale than many traditional applications because server resources (such as memory and computing power) can be flexibly adjusted to meet demand.
- Security: Although web applications face their own security challenges, centralized hosting allows for faster and more consistent implementation of security patches and updates and also the implementation of something like a Web DDoS protection or a Web Application Firewall (WAF).
- Access from anywhere: Users can access web applications from anywhere, as long as there is an internet connection. This promotes flexibility and mobility, especially for teams working remotely or in different locations.
What are web applications used for?
Web applications are used for a variety of purposes, ranging from simple tasks to complex enterprise applications.
E-commerce
Web applications enable online commerce by allowing users to browse products, add items to a shopping cart and complete purchases securely. They also support the management of user accounts, the processing of payment information and integration with other services such as shipping logistics.
Online banking
Banks and financial institutions use web applications to provide their customers with access to financial services. Users can manage accounts, make transfers, pay bills and monitor their financial transactions.
Education and training
Web applications play a central role in e-learning by providing interactive courses, virtual classrooms and educational resources. They enable both synchronous and asynchronous learning and can be used on different devices.
Enterprise applications
Many organizations rely on web applications for tasks such as project management, customer relationship management (CRM), enterprise resource planning (ERP) and many other business-critical functions. These applications enable teams to work together effectively, regardless of their location.
Social media
Web applications form the basis for social networks, forums and other interactive platforms that enable users to create, share and discuss content. They support multimedia content and offer functions for networking and communication.
Healthcare
In healthcare, web applications are used to manage patient data, schedule appointments and monitor patients remotely. They enable healthcare providers to access critical information efficiently and securely.
Entertainment
Web applications offer streaming services, online games and other forms of entertainment. They are designed to deliver media content to a wide range of devices and create an interactive user experience.
Government and public services
Government agencies use web applications to make it easier for citizens to access information, services and transactions. This includes processing tax returns, applying for documents and providing public resources.
Human resources
Web-based applications are also used in human resources to digitize recruitment, onboarding, employee administration and payroll. They improve the efficiency and accuracy of HR processes.
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