The future o Desktop and the emergence of Web Apps
For some time now, web apps have become a focal point for many companies interested in developing certain types of software. Despite the greater availability of desktop applications on the market, these more recent solutions offer certain advantages which fit everyday requirements well.
The main differences between web apps and desktop
Personal computers reached their peak popularity back in the eighties. At that time, all software was desktop based and in order to function, had to be installed onto the computer manually.
From the start of the new millennium however, the rise of the internet in both domestic and social settings has literally revolutionised the scenario, opening the doors to the first web applications.
At that time, software started to be installed on servers and used via browsers (applications which enable online navigation), without the need to have an application installed on a specific pc.
This is the main feature that distinguishes web apps from desktop programs, but it is not the only one. Other differences between the two solutions include:
- Updates and installation: web apps are installed onto the server once only, while desktop programs are installed on each individual computer;
- Program start-up: web applications can be started from any work station equipped with an internet connection, while desktop software can only be started up on the device it was installed on;
- Dependence on the operating system; in this area, web apps are more dynamic than desktop programs as they can be used on any device regardless of its operating system. Desktop software, on the other hand, is developed for use on a specific operating system;
- Internet connection: as mentioned above, web applications must always be connected to the internet in order to function, while desktop programs can be used without relying on the net;
- Security: as they are constantly online, web apps are much more exposed to security risks compared to desktop software, which benefits from better management of permissions, usually granted by the administrator of the pc or the local network. Security is now considered a crucial factor by companies and others.
Over time and as a consequence of modern requirements of companies and individuals, these two different worlds have finally come together, giving rise to hybrid versions of the various kinds of application.
There are in fact web applications, which, while maintaining the server-client combination, are designed to function on an Intranet based system, (a network which is isolated from the internet) and desktop applications which require an internet connection to be able to carry out certain functions, such as receiving updates.
It is not yet time to side-line desktop programs
Web applications remain the most financially attractive option for companies, as they require less maintenance and have installation costs are minimal. The number of software houses who are investing in web app development is increasing steadily and they tend to prefer to rent online services rather than purchase software licences una tantum.
Despite the growing popularity of web apps however, desktop software still has much to offer, especially in terms of performance. The evolution of applications via web is clear and is destined to continue, but as far as versatility and response speed are concerned, desktop programs remain unmatched.
There are some fields, such as data analysis or artificial intelligence development, which keep desktop applications going. Considering the trend reflected by the gradual evolution and growing importance of those sectors, it is likely that such software solutions are here to stay.
Translated by Joanne Beckwith
