We’re in the digital days and internet has reached more people than ever before. This shift in trend can be attributed to the advantages of web based applications. These applications run through web browsers such as Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Chrome and others. The program sits on a web server, rather than on the PC, or local server for traditional applications.

Dynamic applications rely on databases to permanently store data that can be accesses on request. The most commonly used applications include webmail, online auctions, retail sales, etc. For example, a shopping cart application can be used to managing stocks, point of sale, and generate reports required to run a store.

What exactly is a web based application? This is an application used either over the Internet or Intranet (used over a network). Sometimes, the term can also be used for applications which are hosted on a web browser controlled environment.

Main advantage of these applications is their wide usability but let us have a look at the other advantages they offer.

1. Convenience

The first of the advantages of web based applications is that it is very convenient for use. Whether on the intranet or internet, the application can be accessed with ease. One can access these applications 24 hours of the day and 365 days a year. They can be used in any part of the world any time. The entire database is available all the time. One can either make use of the computer or phone to access the required data, whenever it is required. A person need not be confined to his office only.

2. No Installation and/or Maintenance

Unlike the desktop applications, the web applications do not have to be installed, as they run on a web server. The time and trouble required for installing a software are also done away with. At the same, since the web servers are used, maintenance, troubleshooting problems hardly arise. One does not have to go through the headache of heavy backups to be taken on disk space, etc. either.

3. Cost

As compared to the desktop applications, these applications are cost effective. These applications cost lesser as compared to the web applications. At the same time, it does not waste any space on the computer, as the software are run from a server. One does not have to pay for maintenance fees either.

4. Multiple Platforms

The beauty of the web applications is that they work on multiple platforms. Most of the applications work on different Internet browsers like Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, etc. They are often also compatible with most of the computer operating systems. Immaterial of the browser or the operating system, there is no difference in the way the applications work. The quality of work remains the same all the time.

5. Advanced Versions

As a user a person does not have to worry about whether the application is up to date. The application is always up to date. There is no need of being on the run always, as the up-gradation, etc. is taken care of. This is one of the best advantages of open source web applications.

6. User Training

One does not have to undergo training at any particular time only. According to the users convenience can the user undergo training. At the same time, if a particular user is a slow learner or does not have a lot of time to spare, then the user can decide the pace of learning as well.

Disadvantages of Web Based Applications

Like there are advantages of web applications, there are certain web based applications disadvantages as well.

1. If run on the internet, it could be slow since internet is not always 100% available
2. Interfaces often not as sophisticated as desktop applications since they’re developed for compatibility with different browsers and operating systems.
3. Can take longer to develop as they are more complex and have to support different browsers, and different versions
4. They’re vulnerable to security risks. Running on the internet exposes the application to security risks knowingly or unknowingly as there’re no limits on its availability.