A web application is a computer program that performs operations via the Internet by using web browsers and web technologies.
Nowadays, millions of businesses use the Internet as a cost-effective communication medium. Web applications exchange information with their target source and make fast, secure transactions. Effective engagement is only possible when the business can get. And store all the necessary data, process this information, and present the result to the user.
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A web application is a combination of two types of scripts: one is a server-side script, and the other is a client-side script.
Server-side scripts (PHP and ASP) manage the storage and retrieval of the information, and client-side scripts (JavaScript and HTML) to display the information to the users. This allows users to interact with the company via online forms, content management systems, shopping carts, and other tools. Furthermore, the applications enable employees to create papers, exchange information, collaborate on projects, and work on shared documents from any place or device.
How does a web application work?
Web applications are regularly created in a browser-supported language, such as JavaScript or HTML since these languages depend on the browser to create the program executable. Some of the apps are dynamic and must be handled on the server. Others are fully static, requiring no server processing.
A web server is required to manage client requests, a web application server to perform the tasks requested, and, in certain cases, a database to store the information. Application server technology includes ASP.NET, ASP, ColdFusion, PHP, and JSP.
A common web application flow looks like this:
- The web browser or user, is used to send a request to the Net Server utilizing the Internet.
- The Web Server transfers this request to the appropriate web application server
- The web application Server performs the desired action, such as accessing the database or processing data – and then generates the requested data results.
- The Web application Server provides the requested information or processed data to the Web Server.
- The web server responds to the client with the requested information, which is subsequently shown on the user’s screen.
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A Web Application example
Online forms, shopping carts, word processors, spreadsheets, video and picture editing, file conversion, file scanning, and email services such as Gmail, Yahoo, and AOL are examples of web apps. Google Apps and Microsoft 365 are two popular programs.
Gmail, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Google Slides, and online storage. Other services are included with Google Apps for Work. Other features include online document and calendar sharing. This allows all team members to access the same version of a document at the same time.
Advantages of a Web Application
- Web apps may operate on any platform, regardless of operating system or device, as long as the browser is compatible.
- All users have access to the same version, which eliminates any compatibility difficulties.
- They are not put on a difficult circle, hence, there are no space limitations.
- In subscription-based web applications, they decrease software piracy (i.e. SaaS)
- They cut expenses for both the company and the end-user since the business requires less support and maintenance. The end user’s machine has fewer requirements.
Conclusion
Increased Internet usage among businesses and individuals has affected the businesses they operate. This has resulted in the growing use of web apps as businesses transition from old models to cloud-based and grid-based structures. Web apps enable organizations to simplify processes, boost efficiency, and cut expenses.
Email clients, word processors, spreadsheets, and other tools available online have the same functionality as desktop equivalents. However, they offer the extra benefit of functioning across numerous platforms and having a wider reach. And is conveniently available from anywhere.