When we talk about computer programs or applications, we naturally assume that we talking about the ones that are usually installed on your desktop computer or laptop – you know, MS Word, Excel, Outlook etc., but in business computing, as well as in domestic usage, you see a great deal of server and cloud-based applications. So what’s the difference between these three tiers of applications? This short post outlines the differences; lets take a look.

Desktop Programs

A desktop application is your typical computer program; the one everyone thinks of. The program is launched from your menu or start bar, or from a shortcut, and runs and uses your desktop computer’s internal resources to function, create, and save data. Desktop applications can also be variously called PC programs, client applications, or apps, and some examples include Microsoft Office, Apple iWork, and of course a plethora of PC games. They are purchased and installed either off-the-shelf, downloaded, or licensed per-seat from an organization that you work for.

Server-based Applications

Server-based applications on the other hand, are launched from a shortcut and used just like desktop applications, and use the memory from your desktop PC once they are running, but they use the database, storage, and some other resources of the server on which they are installed in order to function. Server-based applications, also called client-server applications, tend to be used by larger companies and organizations, and include programs like CRM systems, systems management, and other information systems such as Confluence.

Cloud-based Applications

Cloud-based applications are those programs that reside ‘in the cloud’ and are thus available anywhere, on any supported device. Programs can be personal applications, or those for large scale organizations. Also called Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), some examples include the Adobe Creative Cloud, DropBox, social media, and iCloud.

Web-based Applications

Not to be confused with server-based or cloud-based applications, web-based applications sit between those two models, and can offer similar functionality to both. The difference is that the programs and data are accessed via a web browser on virtually any computer or mobile device. Web-based programs include a vast range of services, including video streaming services like Netflix, collaboration and organizational programs like Slack or Trello, Zoom, online banking, and flight booking systems, for example.

This covers the four main types of application installations in brief. Future posts will cover each of these topics in greater details, so check back again soon!

For more info and advice on your individual application deployment frameworks, please contact TechPoint, and we’d be happy to help.