You may not notice, but web applications largely dominate the online world. They are also known as web apps and websites and have helped companies offer various functional features to business clients seamlessly.

Even global companies are not immune to the charm of web application software. For example, Google Docs, Netflix, and Facebook are some of the common web apps we use in our day-to-day life.

Last year (in 2023), the global PWA (progressive web apps) market was valued at a revenue of a staggering $1,463.1 million. This is further expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30.5% from 2024 to 2030, reaching $9,425.9 million by 2030

But what is a web app, and how does it work? This blog explains in detail.

What is a web application?

Web application software, also known as a web app, is a computer program that runs on a web browser and can be accessed over a network. Businesses that need to exchange data or deliver services to clients can launch web applications.

Many technologists argue that interactive websites are web applications. For example, eCommerce features like add to cart, finding specific product, social media features like news feed, messaging capabilities, transforms websites into web applications.

In short, web application software allows users to access complex functional features without having to install software. Let’s understand this in detail.

What is the difference between a web application and a website?

Earlier websites had limited functionalities compared to web apps. Websites were built to deliver static content to the targeted users. For example, a business site that displays the same information to all the online visitors. Internet users were required to download and install software applications for gaining access to complex functionalities.

Web applications were designed to bridge the gap between the static websites and software applications. So, they offer interactive functional features but it is delivered via a web browser.

Nowadays, modern websites can also access complex functionality without requiring users to download them.

How web applications work?

Web applications are stored on a remote server and accessed via a web browser through a network. Web browsers like Google Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer, Opera, and others allow users to access web apps.

A web app functions by exchanging requests and responses between a user and a web server, web application server, and database.

Here’s how the data exchange takes place:

User request: When a user accesses the web app, a request is triggered to the web server.

Web server: The web server forwards the user request to the web application server.

Web application server: The web application server processes the request. This involves querying the database or processing data, which further generates the results and sends them back to the web server.

Web server: At the endpoint, the web server delivers the requested information to the user’s device.

Building web application software typically has short development cycles and small teams. Developers write most web apps using JavaScript, HTML5, and CSS.

The client-side programming leverages these languages and JavaScript frameworks to build user interfaces. On the other hand the server-side programming creates the scripts using PHP, Python, Django, and other technologies.

You can hire web app developers skilled in full-stack (both frontend and backend) technologies. Unlike native apps, you do not need a large team of experts. So this allows you to build web applications with ease.

What are the advantages of web applications? 

Web apps have become invincible tools for launching seamless UX with business offerings. Here are some of the key benefits of web applications.

1. Easy to access

Web apps are cross-browser and multi-device compatible. This means different business teams can quickly access shared documents, exchange data, anytime anywhere.

The only requirement is a stable internet connection. Companies can also launch and offer various business services through web applications.

2. Streamline development process

One of the most promising benefits of web apps is that they can be built with simple technologies. Building a web app requires the use of fundamental technologies.

Moreover, the application works exceptionally well on all modern browsers and devices. This boosts adoption among the users.

3. No need to download them

Unlike mobile apps, users do not have to download web apps to utilise them. This means any updates or new features added by you becomes automatically available to the users.

Whenever a user refreshes the web page or accesses it after their on-going session, they have the up-to-date web app. This helps to tackle security vulnerability and updates smoothly.

4. Offers optimum scalability

Most web applications are stored on the Cloud. This means you can ensure high scalability for the application users. You do not have to worry about the costlier hardware infrastructure or additional storage capacities.

What are the disadvantages of web applications? 

1. Security risks

Web apps can be vulnerable to hacking, data breaches, and phishing attacks. For example, hackers often target online banking web applications to gain unauthorised access.

2. Requires stable  internet connection

Users with an unstable or slow internet connection may have trouble accessing the app. This is where mobile apps adhere to better performances because they offer access to several offline functionalities.

Coding Sprint can help you make secure and scalable web apps

We analyse your business requirements to make unique bespoke applications. Our focus is to create solutions that adapt your needs and streamline key operations. Based on your industry vertical, we also implement necessary regulatory compliances and technology trends.

 

 

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