What is a Web Application? Types & Benefits Explained

How do you think you are able to enjoy your favorite shows on Netflix or design the most attractive posters on Canva? Both of them are different types of web applications. Similarly, there are many other kinds of Web applications, each with its own set of features and benefits. 

Let us learn more about web applications in detail to know more.

What Is a Web App?

A web application is an app that works on both mobile and browser devices. Although they may resemble mobile applications, they are quite different from them. Typically, they are software applications that perform numerous tasks. These applications work on three key elements. They are- 

• A web server that handles all customer requests. 
• An application server that implements the tasks that are requested. 
• A database that helps store all valuable information. 

You can also learn about the best practices for building user-friendly web applications. This will help you to get into the crux of a web application and understand how to make it search engine optimized. 

How Does a Web Application Work? -H2

• The user starts using the internet after connecting to a strong wifi network. This is when they build a request to use a web application. 
• The web server recognizes this request and processes it for approval to the potential web server of the app. 
• At this point, the web application server approves this request and generates the results that are required by the user. 
• Now, the web app server sends this information back to the web server. 
• This, in turn, will be sent to the customer’s device, where they can start to read the information sent to them. So, the information will be displayed on the web application. 

Benefits of Web Application Development

1. Browser Compatibility

   With this type of web application, you can implement an accessible URL. Bing, Google Chrome, and Firefox are the best examples of this one. 

2. Cross-platform Abilities

   You can use it from any type of device, including mobile phones, computer servers, tablets and more. This means these web applications are based on responsive designs that can be easily accessible.

3. Customization

   They provide a tailored approach that is relevant to the requirements of the clients. The features are built around it. With a reliable internet connection, you can leverage this tailored approach as they have an intuitive interface. 

4. Easy To Update

   These apps can be easily upgraded to provide a convenient experience to all customers. So users do not have to spend their time waiting too long for the update to complete. 

5. Speed And Cost

   Native apps are very costly. They may also run slower than a web application. These web apps are much better in comparison to their speed and cost. So, if any business wants to expedite the market, it is best to start with a web app, as they do not let you break the bank. 

You can learn more about it by referring to full stack development with Cloud for web and mobile.

Types of Web Applications

1. Static Web Application

   In this type, there is no communication between the server and the user. There is no information request from the client side. But the information is directly sent to the user. 

2. Dynamic Web Application

   These applications respond to the users within a set deadline. The seamless communication between the client and the server is also available here. This type of web app also provides a host of interactive features so both the client and the server can get into seamless communication with one another. 

3. CMS Web Application

   Content Management System (CMS) makes it possible for clients to customize the content as per their needs. This helps them to curate stand-out blog posts, corporate blogs, and more. Google Docs is a great example of such types of web applications. 

4. E-commerce Web App

   Any type of web app that fosters the practice of online purchasing or selling of products and services is known as an e-commerce web app. These include a multitude of features and categories, from transactions to integration of electronic payments and more. 
   
   That is why these types of web applications can be a bit more costly than others. If you want to know more about website building, here are the top 5 concepts to know when building an application. The information is sure to help you. 

5. Portal Web App

   These are the types of web applications that only allow authorized access to client users. Naturally, they are well-protected and promote high-end security for users. Most businesses and corporations leverage the features of these applications to derive the best results. 

6. Single-page App

   These are a type of dynamic application that allows users to make free and seamless communications within a set browser. Here, the user responses are processed faster and in a much more convenient manner. 

7. Multi-page Application

   These types of web applications do not have any form of page limitations. That is why they offer comprehensive information on diverse services and products to help customers gain actionable solutions.

8. Rich Internet Web App

   These are the types of web applications that share numerous functionality with desktop apps. They are very engaging, fast, and efficient when compared to the standard web apps in the business. 

9. Progressive Web Apps

   These are the types of web applications that are the most appreciated and advanced. They resemble mobile apps but provide better efficiency. However, they use progressive enhancement methods to provide good results. You can learn more about them as you tap into best practices for building user-friendly web applications for more useful information. 

What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of using these numerous types of Web Applications?