Desktop applications appeared in the software development market long before web solutions.But when widespread internet coverage became the norm, web applications started growing inpopularity and, ultimately, won a much bigger market share. It, of course, doesn’t mean thatthe era of desktop apps is over. Both desktop and web applications have their strengths andweaknesses, so today’s businesses can choose the option that fits them best.
In this article, we’ll outline the main benefits and drawbacks of web and desktop apps. Checkit out if you still cannot decide which path to follow.
The key difference between a web application and a desktop application
How is a web app different from a desktop application? A web application is a softwareapplication stored on a remote server and run in a web browser. Simply put, web apps requestthe content from a server and immediately generate web documents for users. The role of aweb browser is essential here since it interprets the scripts and displays the applicationto users in a form of web pages, not code lines.
It’s also important to understand that web applications and websites are different types of websolutions. While standard websites usually use static layouts, web applications are dynamic andinteractive. They allow users not only to view the content but also to make changes to the interfaceand interact with its elements. For example, web apps include message boards, guest sign-in books,email programs, social media, booking platforms, and many more.
Meanwhile, a desktop application is a software application that is installed on a computer(laptop or PC). A user can download it from the internet or install it via a data storageservice. Desktop apps operate as stand-alone software, which means they can be used offlineand do not require access to the internet or web browser to work. Some classic examples ofdesktop applications include graphic editors, spreadsheets, media players, text editors.
In general, desktop and web applications may perform similar functions, but their nature is different.So let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of web and desktop apps.
Desktop vs. web application: pros and cons
Before deciding whether to build a desktop or web application, you need to understand whatadvantages and disadvantages each option brings to the table. So let’s discuss them in moredetail.
Web advantages
No need to install
To access both web and desktop, you need a computer. But web apps do not requireinstallation. Due to this, they don’t occupy any space on your hard drive. An URL, a username, and a password are enough to use these applications.
No hustle with upgrades
Web apps do not require any actions from a user to upgrade. Since upgrades are applieddirectly to a server, users always get the latest version of an application whenever theylaunch it. It means no annoying notifications, reloads, and slow performance of the oldversion.
Platform independence
Since web apps are cross-platform, they can be launched on different platforms. Basically,you can run them on any device that has internet access and a web browser. Although somebrowser compatibility issues may occur, there is no need to build an app around a specificplatform, which extends the app’s possibilities and saves costs.
Easy access
The level of accessibility is another vital difference between desktop and web applications.You don’t need to have your computer near-at-hand to use a web app. Users can access webapps from any PC (or another device) with an internet connection. So your location and thedevice you are using do not matter at all.
Access from a mobile device
One more benefit of developing a web application is its mobile-oriented nature. Most webapps have a responsive design and can be easily accessed from a mobile device. Since modernpeople use smartphones a lot, it’s a huge advantage.
Web disadvantages
Security
Web applications are exposed to more security risks than desktop apps. There are multiplereasons for that, for example, internet access, a variety of users who are not alwaysidentifiable, cyber-attacks, etc.
Internet dependency
The internet is widespread, but it is still not everywhere. If the internet coverage islost, web applications are of no use.
Slower performance
Web applications are also considered to be slower than desktop applications. While it’s notalways the case, and everything depends on the internet speed and many other factors,transmitting large amounts of data every time you request an HTML document can make the appperformance sluggish.
Browser reliance
There are many web browsers. So web applications must be compatible with all of them to giveusers the freedom of accessing a solution from any device. It also makes you dependent onthe way the browser supports particular functions and features. If it’s not taken intoaccount, users may face some difficulties when working with an application.
Desktop advantages
No regular fees
Users are usually charged some monthly or annual fees for using web applications. Unlike webapplications, desktop apps are either free or require one-time payments. So, when you use adesktop app, you don’t have to worry that one day you can lose access to it because youdidn’t pay the bill. Once you buy an application, it is on your computer and it is totallyyours.
No reliance on the Internet
Dependency on internet coverage is another difference between desktop and web apps that mustbe considered. With desktop apps, you don’t have to worry about a slow internet connection.Basically, you’ll be able to access your application as long as you can access yourcomputer. Meanwhile, an internet connection is a must when you use web apps.
Privacy
If compared to web applications, desktop apps offer much stronger data protection. When itcomes to privacy, users usually feel more comfortable about storing their information ontheir computers, not on the internet. Of course, the data on a computer is also not totallysafe, but it’s definitely safer than on the web.
Better use of computer resources
In general, desktop applications are faster than web applications since they runindependently on your computer and do not require an internet connection.
Better performance
In general, desktop applications are faster than web-based ones, run independently on yourcomputer, and do not require proper connection to the Internet. In this case, independencyfrom web brings a positive result.
Lower hosting costs
Developing a desktop application requires minimal hosting costs. All you need here is toserve several pages and download a file to every user. Meanwhile, hosting costs for webapplications are much higher.
Desktop disadvantages
Lack of portability
Unlike web applications, desktop applications can be used only on the computers where theyare installed. So, for example, if you change a computer, it won’t impact your interactionwith a web application. But if you use a desktop app, you will need to install it on everynew device and start all over again.
Need to install an app
Unlike web applications, desktop applications require installation, which means you need tohave some vacant space on the hard drive. The installation process also takes some time.
Updates
As mentioned, desktop apps have to be installed on each computer separately. The sameapplies when it comes to updates. You must ensure that all users updated the app, no matterhow many of them are there – a few people or thousands of people.
Extra storage needed
Unlike web applications, desktop apps need some space on your computer to be installed andoperate smoothly. If there is no enough available space on the hard drive, you’ll need todelete some other solutions or files.
Conclusion
Today, web applications are extremely popular. However, they haven’t fully replaced desktopapps which still have their benefits. You can decide whether building a desktop or webapplication is more suitable for your business by comparing their advantages anddisadvantages. Since all companies are unique, there is no one-size-fits-all solution in thedesktop vs web app clash. You have to make a choice based on your needs and requirements.
